Arsenal and Chelsea worlds apart

Asked whether he would still be manager if he went seven years without winning a trophy like Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, Roberto Di Matteo said: "What do you think?"

Di Matteo acknowledged Chelsea and Arsenal had two completely different philosophies when it came to achieving success.

"I think it's great that Arsene Wenger has been able to work so many years at a big club like Arsenal," he said ahead of Saturday's (9.45pm AEST) English Premier League clash between the sides.

"But they are two different kinds of models. I didn't say inferior. Just different."

Never mind seven years - Di Matteo would be lucky to survive seven months if it looked like he might fail to build on last season's extraordinary UEFA Champions League and FA Cup double.

And that applies not just to results but performances after the way the Blues finally ended their long wait for European glory did not exactly see them feted as one of the greats.

But Di Matteo said: "We are European champions. Whether people respect that or not, it's a fact. It's not my problem, to be honest.

"I know how hard we worked to get the result and how much effort we put into it. Everybody. And we've been repaid with the trophy."

Whether further success will follow has been hard to determine from nine games this season that has seen Chelsea storm to the top of the Premier League but found wanting in other competitions against far sterner opposition.

Saturday is arguably its biggest test yet.

Di Matteo said: "Arsenal away is always a big test, a big challenge for us.

"But it will be for Arsenal, too. We are a good team, too."

Saturday will see Chelsea come up against Theo Walcott, who it was linked with all summer and could easily make a move for in January if Arsenal fails to convince the winger to sign a new contract.

Di Matteo said: "I do like Walcott, yes. He's a good player. He's an Arsenal player, so I'm not going to comment."