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#3 Antonio Conte (Chelsea)
It was a bit of a surprise that Conte was at the helm during the start of the season given disagreements over transfer targets between him and the Chelsea hierarchy.
Having overcome the uncertainty and negativity around Stamford Bridge at the start of the season, the mood was quite pleasant at Chelsea. The display against Atletico in the Champions League hinted at a team growing in confidence.
But, the joy was shortlived as losses to Manchester City and Crystal Palace brought back the doubts. A hard-fought win against Watford suggests the Blues are a different unit than two seasons before when they failed miserably.
Injuries and the lack of depth
Injuries could not have come at a worse time for Conte's side as key players have been sidelined during a busy schedule. Star performers like Pedro have had an injury-hit campaign and other key players like N'Golo Kante and Victor Moses have also joined the list.
Rumours about players questioning the training regime and texting their former assistant coach; Steve Holland has further added fuel to growing concerns about the position of the manager.
Given the ruthless nature of Chelsea's owner, it is always a worry for any manager at the helm. The structure and discipline which won them the title last season seems missing this time around as Conte shuffles his squad to keep his players fresh.
Captain Gary Cahill and David Luiz have not been up to the level they had last season. The attack seems too reliant on new buy Alvaro Morata with Eden Hazard just back after injury and Willian not performing up to his usual standards.
What next?
Having won 3 games in a row in all competitions, Chelsea finally looked to have arrested their disappointing form.
However, the 3-0 defeat by AS Roma showed just how a game can turn the tables. They face Manchester United next at home and recent jibes between Conte and Mourinho adds extra significance to the fixture.
The window is long gone and Conte needs to focus his team on winning. He needs to wait until January when he can turn his attention to bolster his squad. Until then, he needs to make work of what he has currently which he is capable of.
