What a difference 7 months makes: Reaction to Chelsea defeat by Arsenal speaks of the miraculous job of Conte

Sometimes it’s worth taking a look back to really appreciate the remarkable work that Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has done in such a short space of time.

Because one only has to look back to that abject defeat at Arsenal in September to realise that mountains have been moved in order to make Chelsea runaway leaders for most of the season.

Jose Mourinho has been credited with steadying the ship at Manchester United. But he spent over 150m GBP and United are still only fifth.

Jurgen Klopp got a six year contract on the back of a sensational first half of this season but ultimately Liverpool have ended the season empty handed again.

And it’s hard to refute the good work that Mauricio Pochettino has done at Tottenham but that’s over a longer period of time and Spurs too are still trophy less.

But perhaps the best comparison is with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Both started at the same time and City had far greater resources as well as a new manager who was heralded as the best in the world. But City too will end this season without silverware.

Meanwhile Conte has turned Chelsea from also rans into likely champions at the first time of asking and he’s done so with a bold formation which hasn’t been used much in the Premier League – certainly not by a team that has gone on the win the title.

So, however the season ends, we should fully appreciate Conte’s efforts at Chelsea this season – they have been nothing short of remarkable.

Meanwhile, The BBC wrote:

Chelsea looked an old and jaded side when faced with Liverpool’s intense, aggressive approach at Stamford Bridge last week, their first loss under Antonio Conte.

This was, arguably, an even more harrowing experience and a stark illustration of the job the Italian must do to revive Chelsea.

And The Guardian:

Arsenal, rampant and irrepressible, have become the latest contenders to expose just how far Chelsea have slipped in the period since they claimed the Premier League. On this evidence, it is barely conceivable that those in blue had hoisted the trophy only 16 months ago. Their current, dishevelled selection surrendered meekly here, just as they had to Liverpool the previous week, from the moment they were breached. It ended up as a brutal humiliation to endure.

What a turnaround. Hats off to Mr.Conte!