5 challenges that Antonio Conte must overcome to retain the title next season

Modified Jul 19, 2017 09:45 GMT

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 15: Chelsea manager Antonio Conte celebrates at the end of the Premier League match between Chelsea and Watford at Stamford Bridge on May 15, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) — To be, or not to be

#2 Fat Cat Syndrome

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 09: Jose Mourinho manager of Chelsea reacts during the UEFA Champions League Group G match between Chelsea FC and FC Porto at Stamford Bridge on December 9, 2015 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) — The biggest victim of Fat Cat Syndrome

In 2016/17, Chelsea won a record thirty games and registered one of the most impressive campaigns in Premier League history, but it was largely this same group of players that mounted a ghastly title defence in the previous season.

If it weren’t for the train wreck that was the Blues’ 2015/16 season, a fair wind wouldn’t have blown Antonio Conte to West London. He, of all people, should know that complacency has a habit of settling down at Stamford Bridge.

Therefore, it is imperative that the Italian imposes a strict regimen on his charges and keeps them motivated to win another title. No team has retained the Premier League crown since Manchester United in the 2008/09 season, so it’s fair to say that Chelsea have a mountain to climb if they want to repeat as champions.

Edited by Staff Editor