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Chelsea: What to do to challenge for the title next season

By Uzair Madhani

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 12: Antonio Conte, Manager of Chelsea looks on during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Burnley at Stamford Bridge on August 12, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 12: Antonio Conte, Manager of Chelsea looks on during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Burnley at Stamford Bridge on August 12, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /
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With one game to go and Champions League qualification out of their hands, the upcoming off-season looks like a tough one for Chelsea.

The mood is sour at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea has been poor this season, mounting a meek defense of their Premier League crown. Antonio Conte has been at odds with the club’s board, their transfer policy, and even sometimes the players.

This inner turmoil has translated to poor on-pitch performances, particularly in the early months of 2018. In a season where all the major sides, barring Manchester City, have been inconsistent, Chelsea has probably been the most infuriating. The side has gone from champions to also-rans, and as things stand, will not be playing in the Champions League next season.

It will take a lot of work to turn this side around over the summer. Here’s how they can bounce back from this poor campaign and become legitimate contenders once more.

Is Conte staying or going?

The Italian’s position at Chelsea has been the subject of debate for months now. A quick resolution is vital.

The passionate manager has cut a frustrated figure this season. As Chelsea have floundered, he has grown more crazed on the touchline. He is a bundle of angry, swearing energy. It has been hard to believe that this was the same man who popularised the switch to a three-at-the-back formation last season.

Constant talk of Conte’s departure from the club has hovered over Chelsea like the sword of Damocles. Sources seemingly are unable to decide if he will see out the last year of his contract, or return to Italy. He has said that his future will be made clear after the FA Cup final against Manchester United.

This situation must be handled as quickly as possible. A new appointment must be made before the World Cup if Conte is sacked. Doing so will allow the new manager to use the duration of the tournament to settle into the club, and draw up a plan for next year. If nothing else, Chelsea looked like a team without a plan this season.

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