The signs of improvement were undeniable for Chelsea. Passion and spirit, but most pertinently of all: a clear plan.
After watching this, you’d have forgiven the Blues’ American ownership for thinking they’d have avoided last season’s debacle had they taken the decision to appoint Mauricio Pochettino then.
It’s no secret the Argentine was second-choice to Graham Potter, who was eventually appointed as Thomas Tuchel’s replacement in September, following the German’s sudden sacking.
Life under Potter won’t be remembered particularly fondly by those with Chelsea connections; the team slumped into an uncontrollable spiral under his stewardship.