Nemanja Matić made his professional transition from a playmaker to a defensive midfielder while playing for Benfica, a strategic shift that defined his trajectory across top-tier European leagues. Born in Šabac in 1988, he began his senior career at Kolubara before building a reputation for tactical discipline and physical resilience across stints in Slovakia, Portugal, England, Italy, and France.
Early Development and Overseas Moves
Matić started playing football at age five with FK Vrelo. After his time at Kolubara, he moved to Slovakia in 2007 to join Košice, where he also attained Slovak citizenship. His potential drew interest from the Premier League, leading to his first signing with Chelsea in August 2009 for a fee of approximately £1.5 million. His initial period at Chelsea included a loan spell at the Dutch club Vitesse during the 2010–11 season.
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In 2011, Matić moved to Benfica as part of a swap deal involving David Luiz. Under manager Jorge Jesus, he evolved into a defensive midfielder, a role that brought him significant recognition. He secured the 2012 Taça da Liga and was named the Primeira Liga Player of the Year for the 2012–13 season. His contributions helped Benfica reach the 2013 Europa League final, and he later helped the club secure the league title in the 2013–14 season.
Premier League Tenures
Matić rejoined Chelsea in January 2014 for £21 million. He proved integral to the squad, winning two Premier League titles and earning a spot in the 2014–15 PFA Team of the Year. In July 2017, he signed for Manchester United in a deal worth roughly £40 million, reuniting with manager José Mourinho. He remained at Old Trafford until 2022, scoring the club's goal of the season in 2018.
International and Late Career
Matić represented Serbia at the under-21 level and made his senior international debut in 2008. Over his career, he accumulated 48 appearances for the national team, scoring two goals and participating in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Following his departure from Manchester United, he joined Roma in 2022 to work again with Mourinho, before moving to Rennes in 2023 and subsequently joining Serie A club Sassuolo.
Fast facts
- Born: 1988, Šabac
- Senior debut: 2008
- Chelsea initial signing fee: £1.5 million
- 2012-13 Primeira Liga Player of the Year
- Return to Chelsea fee: £21 million
- Manchester United signing fee: £40 million
- Total international appearances: 48
- International goals: 2
Questions readers ask
Did Nemanja Matić play for more than one club in Italy?
Yes, he played for Roma starting in 2022 and later joined Sassuolo.
Which position did Matić play during his time at Benfica?
He was converted from a playmaker into a defensive midfielder under manager Jorge Jesus.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
