Marco Materazzi established a reputation in professional football defined by a relentless, aggressive defensive style that resulted in frequent disciplinary action. Over a career spanning domestic leagues in Italy and a stint in the English Premier League, he transitioned from a lower-division prospect to a central figure in Inter Milan’s dominance during the first decade of the 21st century.
Early Career and International Movement
Born in 1973 in Lecce, Italy, Materazzi’s path to the top tier began with youth stints at Lazio and Messina Peloro. Following time in the lower Italian divisions with Tor di Quinto, Marsala, and Trapani, he joined Perugia in 1995. His development included a spell at Carpi and a 1998–99 season at Everton in England, where his physical approach led to three red cards in 27 appearances. He returned to Perugia in 1999, where he set a Serie A record for goals by a defender in a single season with 12 strikes during the 2000–01 campaign.
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Signed by Inter Milan for €10 million in July 2001, Materazzi became a stalwart for the club, winning five consecutive Serie A titles from 2006 to 2010. His tenure included four Coppa Italia victories and a UEFA Champions League title. By the time he left Inter in 2011 after 270 appearances, his trophy cabinet also featured four Supercoppa Italiana titles and a FIFA Club World Cup. His individual recognition included being named Serie A Defender of the Year for the 2006–07 season.
The 2006 World Cup Final
Materazzi was pivotal during Italy's 2006 FIFA World Cup campaign. In the final against France, he conceded an early penalty but scored the equalising goal for Italy shortly thereafter. During extra time, he was the target of a headbutt from Zinedine Zidane, an incident resulting in Zidane’s expulsion. Italy secured the championship in a subsequent penalty shoot-out, during which Materazzi successfully converted his attempt.
Coaching and Post-Playing Career
After announcing his retirement in 2011, Materazzi returned to professional involvement in 2014. He took a dual role as player-manager for Chennaiyin in the Indian Super League. His career remains categorized under Italian football coaching and association football management, following his retirement from active play.
Fast facts
- Born: 1973, Lecce
- Citizenship: Italy
- Primary Occupations: association football coach, association football player
- Major Honors: Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (2006)
- Inter Milan League Titles: 5 (2006–2010)
- Italy International Caps: 41
Questions readers ask
Did Marco Materazzi ever play in the English Premier League?
Yes, he played for Everton during the 1998–99 season, making 27 appearances and scoring twice.
What record did Materazzi set while playing for Perugia?
During the 2000–01 season, he scored 12 goals, setting a new Serie A record for the most goals scored by a defender in a single season.
Achievements
- Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic — 2006
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
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