Rafael Benitez Booed By Chelsea Fans, Who Pay Tribute To Roberto Di Matteo In 16th Minute

Chelsea Fans Give Cold Welcome To New Boss
On his first game in charge of the club Chelsea's interim head coach Rafael Benitez gestures as he watches during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2012. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
On his first game in charge of the club Chelsea's interim head coach Rafael Benitez gestures as he watches during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2012. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)

By Goal.com

Rafael Benitez's reign at Chelsea got off to a negative start ahead of Sunday's clash with Manchester City, with the new manager being booed by the crowd at Stamford Bridge before a ball had even been kicked.

The former Liverpool boss replaced Roberto Di Matteo at the helm this week after the Italian was dismissed after a run of just two wins in eight, but his arrival in west London was met with dismay by many Blues fans.

Benitez had a fractious relationship with Chelsea when his Liverpool team sparred with the Stamford Bridge club in the Champions League, and it appears the supporters of the London club are not willing to forget.

Chelsea fans also offered a tribute to their former player and manager Di Matteo with a round of applause and chanting throughout the 16th minute of the game - the Italian wore that shirt during his four years as a player at the club.

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