Antonio Conte claims that Chelsea’s success should be based on the work and effort of the team, not the silverware they win.
With Manchester City running away with the Premier League and Manchester United spending all the money in the world to keep up, Chelsea seem to have been left behind. Speaking about the current situation of European football, Antonio Conte admitted that it’s a struggle to compete.
Moreover, the boss revealed that he prefers to measure success by the effort of the team. Silverware is just a secondary target.
"For me, this is already a good season because we are doing 120 per cent…It’s not important if you reach the final or win a trophy or win the league. The most important thing is to see if the coach and players are working hard and very well. This, for me, is a successful season. – via The Telegraph"
These are certainly some puzzling remarks from the Chelsea manager. With the likes of City and United splashing the cash to acquire high-profile talent, the Blues have been deplored for failing to do similarly.
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The result of a poor summer transfer window has been a lacklustre campaign thus far. Chelsea have struggled in the league and find themselves more involved in a top four battle than a title race.
After last season’s success, a drop in form is understandable. Frustratingly, though, the club’s failure to bring in appropriate talent has only hindered them further.
Conte’s comments appear to be an attempt to deflect criticism away from his team. The effort has never been in doubt, but football fans do want silverware, especially from a top club like Chelsea.
Furthermore, 100% or 120% effort levels should be a prerequisite. With the wages these players are paid, fans expect nothing less than total commitment each time they take the field. Hence, effort should not be a measure of success.
Conte is evidently wanting to take the pressure off his players ahead of the big return leg with Arsenal. The League Cup represents Chelsea’s best shot at winning a trophy and the Italian is doing all he can to ensure his players are in the right mindset.
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What do you think of the remarks? Do you agree with Conte? Or are you seeing through them? Let us know in the comments below!