It is with some irony that his first serious game in charge is against Leeds, although it is only a friendly, as the proper stuff will come on Boxing Day when Villa visit Elland Road.
For Leeds, after four pre-season matches without a win, victory will be a tonic ahead of the visit of Newcastle on August 17.
Skipper Matteo said: "We have not had a good pre-season. I'm sure this weekend will be more of an indicator as to what's going on.
"It will be a big test for us, but just because it's David O'Leary I don't think there'll be any problems.
"David was good to me and I'm sure a lot of the other lads will say the same. It will be nice to see him and it makes it an interesting game.
"We need a couple of results to get things right ahead of the Newcastle match. It's important we do get something out of this game."