Carlo Ancelotti has backed Italian sides AC Milan and Napoli to expose the poor state of English football when they meet Arsenal and Chelsea in the Champions League.

Arsenal and Chelsea Boxing Day fear

Milan will play Arsenal when the competition resumes next year while Chelsea have been drawn against Napoli in the round of 16.

Ancelotti believes both London outfits - the only English teams left in the tournament - will over the two legs of their respective ties succumb to Italian opposition because English football is "not very well" at the moment.

The Barclays Premier League is not well represented in Europe this season following the exits of Manchester United and Manchester City at the group stage of the Champions League.

"They are balanced matches with the Italians as favourites," Ancelotti was quoted by the Sun as saying.

"Italian football has made steps forward and after the elimination of City and United, English football is not very well.

"Napoli can play Chelsea as equals.

"Napoli have already had a little difficult period, but it seems they're getting back on track."

Ancelotti, who previously held the position of manager of Chelsea last season, spent eight years at the San Siro winning the Champions League twice. He admits that although he may be biased in predicting Milan to beat Arsenal, it does not change the fact the Rossoneri have better players than the Gunners currently.

"I am a Milan fan, so I find it hard to be rational," he said.

"But [Milan] are superior to Arsenal. They have great players."

The matches are scheduled to take place in February 2012.