Schalke manager Roberto di Matteo has revealed that he draws from his experience of leading Chelsea to the Champions League in 2012, in his tenure at the German outfit.
Di Matteo was appointed at the helm of the Blues in March 2012 following the sacking of the incumbent Andre Villas-Boas and he led the west London outfit to their first Champions League, beating heavy favourites Barcelona and Bayern Munich on their way to the summit.
The Italian has been appointed in similar circumstances to lead Schalke following the sacking of Jans Keller in October last year.
The Germans will take on Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie at the Santiago Bernabeu tomorrow. Having lost the first leg 2-0 at the Veltins-Arena, Schalke have their work cut out to see off the challenge from the reigning champions.
Talking to UEFA, Di Matteo revealed that he draws from his experience of leading Chelsea as he looks to emulate his 2012 success with Schalke.
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“I don't know how much it helps my team, but for me personally that experience has helped me prepare the team.
“I played in the competition, and then gained experience as a coach.”
He elaborated on the differences between playing in the domestic league and Champions League, saying that European competition is a different ball game.
“There is a difference between playing in the Champions League and in the domestic league, and your opponents normally play a different kind of football from the Bundesliga.
“The whole atmosphere is totally different as well.”
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