Antonio Conte The Italian that speaks Spanish
by
David An
So far the only non-Spaniard to score for Chelsea this season in the Premier League is David Luiz. The Brazilian defender's lone goal breaks up the monopoly of Spanish strikes for the Premier League Champions. New boy Alvaro Morata, Cesc Fabregas and defender Marcos Alonso have set the Blues back on track after a shock opening day defeat to Burnley. With Cesar Azpilicueta, Pedro and Costa (for now growling somewhere in London) the Spanish connection at Chelsea is strong.
Alonso was the hero against Tottenham
In a nice coincidence of symmetry it's another Brazilian that breaks up the Spanish monopoly in terms of assists. Willian has the sole assist so far this season with Morata, Azpilicueta and Pedro rounding up the silver platter artisans.
With these players interchanging and assisting for another the form and understanding between these compatriots will go a long way in shaping Chelsea's season.
Credit must go to the manager who has put together this spine. Foreign Managers in the Premier League generally stick to players they know from their homeland. Arsene Wenger's French legion and Rafael Benitez's Spanish acquisitions spring to mind. For one it immediately removes the language barrier whilst they learn English. Conte's ability to adapt these Spanish players has so far paid handsome dividends.
Though this has been known to be a double edged sword as players can complain of cliques appearing in the squad. After all even though N'Golo Kante was voted player of the year last season it's a certain Belgian in Eden Hazard that is the prince of Stamford Bridge. The wizardry no.10 has yet to get his season off and running but his contributions will be key if Chelsea are to get their hands on any silverware. The last time a core group of Spanish players were galvanized by a stylish no.10 the 'real' Spanish Manager Pep Guardiola took his old Barcelona team to stratospheric levels with Leo Messi. Guardiola will be hoping that this is just a tribute act and not a successful sequel.
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