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Is Chelsea’s youth policy finally changing? The future of club and country

By Rupert Meadows

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 27: The Chelsea team Captain Jake Clarke-Salter lifts the trophy as Chelsea win the FA Youth Cup Final - Second Leg between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on April 27, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 27: The Chelsea team Captain Jake Clarke-Salter lifts the trophy as Chelsea win the FA Youth Cup Final - Second Leg between Chelsea and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on April 27, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /
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chelsea, antonio conte
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Antonio Conte, Manager of Chelsea gives his team instructions during the The FA Community Shield final between Chelsea and Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on August 6, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /

Relationship between club and manager

Antonio Conte’s success brings the optimism that he may here for the long run, but this summer has shown just how hungry Chelsea fans are for new signings. This season could be a platform to bleed new youngsters, but the pressure from both supporters and the boss are for the board to bring in new established talent.

However, if and when a manager steps up and commits to the club long-term, things will change. In the last few weeks Conte has been given a new bumper contract (without extension, but still). The club has also begun to try to invest in his vision, buying Tiemoue Bakayoko, Antonio Rudiger and Alvaro Morata.

Let’s look at the manager’s publicly growing frustrations at the current squad. Almost every report has said that the club are trying to find new targets, specifically stating that they are doing so to appease him. The dynamic is changing, and the club is starting to trust the manager more.

On the flip side, Conte said that he was previously unsure about committing to Chelsea, but has since decided to move his family to London. There’s a hesitancy to commit from both, but they seem to be building on their relationship.

While the fact that Conte appears to be earning the board’s trust is great, if this is characterised by more signings, the youth may continue to take a back seat. The club need to be weary of the balance that they have so often ignored in the past. They must beyond the immediate campaign to the players that will be returning in a year’s time.

The coming weeks before the end of the transfer window will be crucial in setting the mood for the season. If a few new players are brought in, and Conte is happy with his squad, then it should be a very positive season for the club and the growing relationship with the manager.

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