During Chelsea's visit to Hong Kong, former head coach and club representative Roberto Di Matteo was interviewed by Hong Kong media.
On transfers
Di Matteo stated that a coach's core responsibility is to refine the team's playing style and achieve seasonal goals, and should not be overly concerned with financial investment. Both players and coaches naturally put pressure on themselves, so there is no need for external parties to add extra pressure. He also emphasized that the club's financial planning is the responsibility of the board and management, while coaches should focus on on-field performance.
On Alonso
Although relatively young, Alonso has extensive coaching experience and demonstrated top-level performance during his tenure in the Bundesliga. Di Matteo has long followed the Bundesliga and was impressed by Alonso's ability to establish team style and rebuild team spirit. He believes Alonso is highly knowledgeable and supported by a strong coaching staff.
On signing veteran players in the summer transfer window
Di Matteo stressed the importance of signing mentally mature players with Premier League experience, particularly citing Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson as players who can effectively stabilize the dressing room. He pointed out that the Premier League is the world's most competitive league, and many foreign players struggle to adapt immediately. Experienced players can help young players integrate into the team both on and off the pitch. He also reflected on his own experience at Chelsea, where veteran players guided new arrivals and played a key role in the team's later success.
More on Alonso
Di Matteo called on fans and club management to give Xavi Alonso more time, as the team's tactical approach, football philosophy, and team spirit require long-term development and cannot be achieved overnight. He noted that many successful teams have only taken shape through sustained leadership by their head coaches, and Chelsea should afford the new manager sufficient time to build a system. Even without immediate championship success, steady improvement in the right direction constitutes success.
Di Matteo highlighted Chelsea's recent signing of promising young talent Morgan Rogers as evidence of the club's strong appeal and clear long-term vision. He stated that even without European football this season, Chelsea remains an ambitious giant club with comprehensive support structures and development facilities capable of attracting top-quality players.
Regarding Chelsea's friendly against Juventus that evening, Di Matteo predicted a highly competitive match quite different from a typical relaxed warm-up fixture (Note: The match has concluded, with Chelsea losing 0-1). He also praised the Kai Tak Sports Park for its exceptional facilities, striking architecture, and retractable roof, which create an excellent match atmosphere and make it a top-quality football venue.
When asked about returning to coaching, Di Matteo smiled and said he greatly enjoys his current life and has no immediate plans to return to a coaching position. However, football will always remain an important part of his life, and he intends to stay involved in the sport in various capacities.
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