Matheus’ Managerial Journey at FC Seoul: Early Impressions and Key Observations

After an intense string of six matches within a grueling 20-day span, Inside Asian Football takes a moment to pause and reflect on Matheus’ start to life as a manager.

Matheus encourages his team from the sidelines.

The results so far

With a mixture of highs and lows, FC Seoul sit fifth in the league with eight points. They have experienced a rollercoaster ride on the pitch:

• A 2–2 draw against Jeju United, conceding in the 89th minute before scoring in the 92nd
• A thrilling 5–4 loss against Gangwon FC
• A 6–1 victory against newly promoted Gimcheon Sangmu, in their first home game of the season
• A 3–2 away win against Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors
• A 1–1 draw against Daegu FC at home, letting in a header from a last-minute corner
• A 2–1 away defeat to reigning champions Ulsan Hyundai

Possession with purpose is Matheus’ wish

Under the tutelage of Matheus, FC Seoul has undergone an adjustment in their playing style. Gone are the days of dull, slow, sideways passing, replaced by a newer, quicker, and more dynamic approach — but still with the same emphasis on keeping the ball. (FC Seoul have won the possession battle in each of their six games so far, ranging from 53 to 72 per cent.) Matheus’ philosophy is centred around purposeful possession, with an emphasis on incisive vertical passing and intelligent movement off the ball. This shift in tactics has injected a renewed energy into the team, allowing them to dominate matches with a brand of possession play that is both captivating and effective.

He can coach an attack, that is for sure

One of the most obvious aspects of Matheus’ managerial reign at FC Seoul has been the sheer amount of goals: 19 in the first six games. Drawing inspiration from his own movements as a player, Matheus has encouraged a dynamic and creative approach, where attackers interchange positions and exploit spaces with precision. The team’s attacking patterns exhibit a delightful mix of quick, one-touch passes, intelligent runs, and calculated off-the-ball movement. It is a sight to behold as the forwards carve through opposition defences with their swift and purposeful attacks.

31-year-old Russian forward Stanislav Iljutcenko has flourished as a deep-lying forward, with five goals and three assists.

But what is a defence, you ask?

While Matheus' tenure has brought forth attacking prowess, it has also exposed defensive vulnerabilities: the team has conceded 15 goals, leaving them top for both goals scored and conceded. Major improvement is needed — and quickly — especially if they are to make a serious title challenge.

Dropping your new goalkeeper after two games shows boldness

New signing Choi Cheol Won was brought in from Bucheon FC with a view to being the number one goalkeeping choice in Seoul. But, he made an atrocious start to the season: unforced errors in possession; mishaps in stopping shots. Recognizing the need for change, Matheus made the daring move to drop him and insert 21-year-old youth graduate Baek Jong Beom between the goalposts. Beom hasn’t been perfect, but he has brought a little more calm to a besieged backline. This decision demonstrated Matheus’ keen eye for identifying weaknesses and his willingness to take calculated risks in order to improve the team’s performance.

Choi Cheol Won’s performance in the 5–4 loss at Gangwon FC was enough for Matheus to drop him.

The young stars are shining brightly

It is no surprise that the man who made his first-team debut for Porto at the age of 17 has shown an inclination towards youth. 21-year-old Kang Seong Jin (3G/2A) has started every game so far, excelling as an inside forward on the right. Full back Lee Tae Suk, 20, has played his part thus far, while centre back Lee Han Beom continues his growth at the club — and has arguably been the calmer head, in comparison to his 34-year-old partner Osmar. The integration of youth into the squad demonstrates Matheus’ commitment to long-term development and building a sustainable future for FC Seoul.

Kang Seong Jin’s dribbling ability leaves an opposition defender behind. Kang has emerged a key attacking threat in Matheus’ side.

Looking ahead at what’s to come

FC Seoul host last-placed Seongnam FC when the K-League returns. A run of eleven games follow in the next six weeks, including the Gyeongin Derby against Incheon United and the Super Match against Suwon Samsung Bluewings. Matheus will be hoping to continue their attacking momentum, while tightening up the defence if they are to push on.

Matheus celebrates his first win as a manager. He will hope for many more to come.

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