• Premier League

Chelsea set to appoint Di Matteo

ESPN staff
June 11, 2012
Roberto Di Matteo won the FA Cup and Champions League as Chelsea's interim boss © PA Photos
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Roberto Di Matteo is on the brink of agreeing a one-year deal to take over as Chelsea manager, according to widespread reports.

The appointment of the 42-year-old Italian, a former Chelsea player, is expected to be announced towards the end of this week.

Di Matteo took over as interim boss in March following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas, and went on to steer the Blues to the Champions League and FA Cup titles.

He was less successful in the Premier League, as Chelsea finished down in sixth, but his efforts have seemingly convinced owner Roman Abramovich to give him the nod.

The duration of the contract will only fuel speculation that Abramovich is planning an approach for ex-Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, who is embarking on a break from football, next summer.

Abramovich is reportedly determined to lure Guardiola to Stamford Bridge following his trophy-laden spell with Barcelona, achieved by playing eye-catching possession football.

Apart from his interim tenure at Chelsea, Di Matteo has experience of managing West Brom, who he steered in the Premier League, and MK Dons.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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