Roberto Di Matteo (born 29 May 1970) is a former professional footballer and manager. Born in Schaffhausen, Switzerland to Italian parents, he represented Italy as a player and later built a managerial career in English football. He is best known for his time as a combative central midfielder and for a brief but historic spell as Chelsea manager.

Playing career — clubs and role

Di Matteo played principally as a central midfielder, combining defensive work with late runs into the penalty area. His senior club career included early years in Switzerland before moves to Italy and England. Notable clubs in his career include:

  • Early Swiss clubs and youth teams, where he began his senior football development.
  • Italian top-flight football, including a period with Lazio that established him at a higher level.
  • Chelsea in England, where he became widely known to British audiences and scored decisive goals in cup competitions.

International career

Although born in Switzerland, Di Matteo chose to represent Italy at senior level. He earned caps for the Italy national team and took part in major international qualifying and tournament squads during the 1990s, contributing as a reliable squad player.

Managerial career and achievements

After retiring as a player, Di Matteo moved into coaching. He was appointed manager of Milton Keynes Dons in mid-2008, gaining attention for his organizational work at the club (MK Dons). He later joined Chelsea's coaching staff and in 2012 became the club's caretaker manager. In that short spell he led Chelsea to victory in the UEFA Champions League and added the FA Cup the same year, achievements that remain highlights of his managerial record.

Style, reputation and notable moments

As a player Di Matteo was regarded as industrious, tactically aware and effective from set pieces. One of his best-known playing moments came in an English cup final where he scored twice as a substitute to secure victory for his team. As a manager he has been praised for steadying teams and for his role in one of English football's most remarkable cup runs.

For further biographical details and career records see club and national profiles: biography, club profile, national team record and MK Dons overview.