Peep peep! It’s the premature end of the Premier League season, in its 25th edition, much heralded as the ultimate competition with the influx of spangled coaches and global football talent, all propped up by a multi-billion TV deal. But with 14 match days left, the league is meandering, even inching, towards a nondescript end. Following a trademark win against London rivals Arsenal, Chelsea were crowned champions elect.
Chelsea coach Antonio Conte and his players can now recline into a cushioned sky-box seat at Stamford Bridge and enjoy their droll stroll to Premier League glory. They can take a glass of champagne, sip and feel the kick of the alcohol, soothing their mind as they contemplate their many fine achievements – the title, their tactical refinement and their early-bird ticket to the Champions League.
Indeed, who can stop the Chelsea juggernaut, a glory-bound perpetuum mobile of the 3-4-3 blueprint, punctuated by a frightening ruthlessness? Arsenal were the last vestige of resistance among a crumbling army of poor defiers. Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho have both endured difficult, if not transitional, first seasons in Manchester. Liverpool have been troubled by a Sadio-Mane-sized hole and Jurgen Klopp’s apparent lack of a plan B.
Predestined result
Arsenal had plenty...
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