As Todd Boehly slipped down into his seat, head in hands, after watching Chelsea throw away their two-goal lead against Wolves, the reality of the situation would have dawned on him. His new era at Stamford Bridge must begin with an overhaul.
There has been a complaint from supporters that their players are coasting to the end of the season, but there is still lots on the line. A comprehensive third-placed finish would help, while lifting the FA Cup later this month would lift the gloom.
As it stands, though, there is a feeling that this cycle at Stamford Bridge is over.