Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Roberto Di Matteo as manager on a two-year contract.
Di Matteo, 42, led the club to glory in the Champions League and FA Cup after being placed in interim charge following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas last season.
Despite calls for the Italian to be appointed on a permanent basis, a number of high-profile managers were considered for the post.
Pep Guardiola was widely believed to be Blues owner Roman Abramovich’s first choice, but reiterated that he wants to take time out of the game after his recent departure from Barcelona.
Di Matteo agreed in principle to accept the job following discussions between Chelsea and his representatives over the weekend.
His right-hand man Eddie Newton is also expected to remain at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea lost only three of their 21 matches after the pair took control of a team that were struggling badly.
A number of the club’s senior players subsequently made it clear they wanted Di Matteo to stay.
See also: Di Matteo and Newton must stay, says former Chelsea man
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This post was last modified on 14/06/2012