Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has hailed Carlo Ancelotti as his "great teacher" as he prepares his side to take on Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Ancelotti delivered Madrid's 10th European title in 2014 but was replaced by Rafael Benitez last year in what proved to be a disastrous short spell in charge for the former Liverpool boss.

Spalletti, who has guided his side to four wins in a row after being appointed as Rudi Garcia's replacement in January, has credited Ancelotti with giving him a broader understanding of the game as he attempts to spring a surprise on his mentor's old club in the Champions League last 16.

"He is my great teacher," he told AS. "He was doing great, as always, wherever he went. Ancelotti is the best that we have in Italy and here we have the best school for coaches.

"I learned everything from him. Every time I have dinner with him I learn everything I can from what he tells me about football. He's a great person and a great coach."