As we enter the backend of one of the most eventful decades in recent history it’s time to look back with rose-tinted glasses at the moments and players that have become synonymous with the unpredictable success of Chelsea’s multiple regeneration projects over the past ten years.
The previous decade had heralded an era of new money domestic dominance. Envy and antagonism painted Chelsea as the pantomime villains contesting the established elites with ‘dirty’ money and an arrogant swagger personified by the ‘Special One’ Jose Mourinho. The acrimonious departure of Mourinho ushered in a conveyor belt of new managers and by the turn of the decade, Chelsea were under the leadership of Carlo Ancelotti, their fourth manager in three years.
The Italians uncompromising attacking style of play drew new admirers and brought Chelsea their first title in four years, alongside an FA Cup victory over Portsmouth. A slow start to the new season bought about more change and it would take five years and the return of Mourinho before Chelsea witnessed another title win. Antonio Conte oversaw Chelsea’s fifth Premier League title in 2017, but the Blues’ crowning glory had come in 2012 when former player Roberto Di Matteo dragged the club to an unprecedented maiden Champions League triumph.
Here we take a look at the players who helped mastermind another period of domestic and European success.
