A survey by the Chelsea FC Supporters’ Trust has revealed that its members value stability in the managerial position at the club more than winning trophies
The only manager that has lasted three full seasons since Roman Abramovich’s takeover of Chelsea FC is current boss Jos Mourinho, whose position is again under threat due to the Blues’ disastrous start to the season.
However, as further proof of the change in the attitude of the club and particularly its fans, a survey conducted by the Chelsea FC Supporters’ Trust revealed that members valued managerial stability more than the winning trophies.
Survey reveals managerial ability more valued than winning trophies
Chelsea FC have achieved enormous success under Roman Abramovich in little over a decade, winning four Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. However, the club have failed to hold on to any manager for long, which has had repercussions in terms of promoting academy players into the first-team squad.
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According to a report in the Daily Mail, members of the Chelsea FC Supporters’ Trust scored ‘giving a manager time to implement a plan’ 4.59 out of 5, compared to 3.29 for ‘winning trophies every season’.
“Management stability and progressing homegrown players through to the first team are seen as more important than attractive football and consistently winning silverware,” read a statement from the Trust.
Survey results reflective of more settled Chelsea FC environment
Although it may not seem like it, given the Blues’ current predicament, there is no doubt that Roman Abramovich is now seemingly prepared to plan for the long term, and consequently, the club as a whole seems more ‘settled’. The very fact that Mourinho has not yet been sacked despite Chelsea FC’s worst ever start to a Premier League campaign is indicative of this.
There is also a recognition from the club’s supporters that a replacement for John Terry must be found from within the club’s ranks, as also that the academy’s incredibly gifted youngsters must get the chance to showcase their ability in the first team. The results of the survey are thus not surprising, and appear to be in keeping with the sentiments of most Blues’ fans around the globe.