Football
Stefan Buczko, Dortmund blogger 8y

Carlo Ancelotti to continue rotation policy at Bayern Munich

New Bayern Munich coach Carlo Ancelotti has said rotation will be key to maintaining a fit and motivated squad throughout the season.

Like predecessor Pep Guardiola, Ancelotti has said he intends to make full use of Bayern's strong squad and will not rely on a fixed starting lineup.

"My plan is to rotate," the Italian told kicker. "There are many games in the thick of the season. I don't want to overextend the players."

Guardiola's policy of regular rotation came under scrutiny during his three-year reign, with suggestions that it hindered the club's chances of winning the Champions League.

However, former AC Milan, Chelsea and Real Madrid boss Ancelotti said it would be a mistake not to make regular changes.

"Half of the team would be completely worn out towards the end of the season, while the other half would be heartbroken," he said. "Rotation is important to keep players motivated.

"We have every medical possibility to control the amount of wear the players face. If they need a break, they will get one."

However, Ancelotti is set to take a very different approach to in-game coaching, with Guardiola making regular tactical tweaks during matches and issuing strong directions to his players.

Asked about his calm demeanour in the dugout, Ancelotti said: "You cannot do anything during the match. It's down to the players then. The coach can't change much from the dugout. Only at half-time.

"The bulk of the work is in the preparation, where you can set the strategy and everything else, but that's not possible within the game anymore."

Ancelotti, whose side lost to Milan on penalties in the International Champions Cup on Wednesday, also stressed that no individual is bigger than the club.

"The club is the star," he said. "Bayern is an established and successful club. Every player feels something special when he puts on the Bayern jersey. I haven't been here for long but it's palpable that the clubs stands above all."

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