Former Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has offered his support to Rafael Benitez, who replaced the Italian as head coach of the Spanish outfit in the summer.

Ancelotti lost his position at the Bernabeu after failing to win either La Liga or the Champions League last season, and that is now the task ahead of Benitez.

The Italian has seemingly placed pressure on the head of Benitez, meanwhile, by claiming that the Spaniard has "a great squad" to work with.

"I know first-hand what it means to coach Real Madrid. I wish Rafa the best. I've got a lot of respect for his work," Marca quotes Ancelotti as saying.

"I can only tell you he has a great squad under his command and I say that as I was fortunate to train them for the last two seasons."

Ancelotti has not yet taken a new position in football.