Carlo Ancelotti's wife has cast doubt on the prospect of an immediate return to AC Milan.

Ancelotti was sacked by Real Madrid on Monday and has been in talks with Milan this week.

"If Real had wanted to, Carlo would've continued," Mariann Ancelotti told Vanity Fair in Spain.

"That did not happen, so because of this Carlo needs to recharge his batteries before getting back to coaching another club.

"The people of Madrid have been very supportive and we've been moved by the enormous respect and recognition they have towards Carlo. We are very grateful for their love and loyalty."