Matthew Thomas Martin Connolly (born 24 September 1987) is an English professional footballer who last played as a defender for EFL Championship club Cardiff City.

Born in Barnet, London, Connolly started his career as a youth at Arsenal, eventually making the reserve side.

[3] He made his first-team debut for Arsenal on 24 October 2006, starting a League Cup third round match against West Bromwich Albion.

[5] In total, he played seven games for Bournemouth (five in League One and two in the FA Cup), and scored his first goal at senior level in a 2–0 win over Nottingham Forest, on 5 December 2006.

Manager Russell Slade stated the deal was a business rather than a footballing decision, with Connolly expressing his surprise at the move.

[20] Connolly rejoined the Cardiff squad for the 2015–16 season, earning himself a permanent place in the side alongside Sean Morrison.

[23][24] Connolly made three appearances for the England under-19 side in 2006, playing in the 2006 UEFA European Under-19 Championship elite qualification matches.