The 2016/17 Premier League season will forever be remembered for Chelsea’s remarkable resurgence under Antonio Conte. Following a disappointing 10th-place finish in 2015/16, Conte transformed the team into champions with a record-breaking campaign. Central to their success was the innovative use of the 3-4-3 formation, making Chelsea the only team to win the Premier League deploying this tactical system consistently throughout the season.
The Context: A Fresh Start for Chelsea
After the chaos of the previous season, Chelsea sought stability under Antonio Conte, the former Juventus and Italy manager renowned for his tactical acumen. Initially starting the season with a 4-1-4-1 setup, Chelsea struggled to find rhythm, losing to Liverpool and Arsenal early in the campaign.
The turning point came in September 2016. In the second half against Arsenal, Conte switched to a 3-4-3 formation, which revitalized the team. From that moment, Chelsea embarked on a record-equalling 13-game winning streak, conceding just 4 goals in that run and surging to the top of the table.
The Lineup: Chelsea’s 3-4-3 Blueprint
Chelsea’s consistent starting XI highlighted the balance and discipline required to execute the 3-4-3 effectively.
- Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
- Defenders: César Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Gary Cahill
- Midfielders: Victor Moses, N’Golo Kanté, Nemanja Matić, Marcos Alonso
- Forwards: Pedro, Eden Hazard, Diego Costa
Key Roles in the 3-4-3
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Three-Man Defence:
Conte repurposed César Azpilicueta as a right-sided center-back, pairing him with David Luiz and Gary Cahill. The trio provided defensive solidity while Luiz acted as the ball-playing anchor, initiating attacks from the back. -
Wing-Backs:
Victor Moses and Marcos Alonso excelled in unfamiliar wing-back roles, offering width and defensive coverage. Moses, a converted winger, thrived under Conte’s guidance, while Alonso’s attacking instincts yielded crucial goals. -
Midfield Engine:
N’Golo Kanté was the heartbeat of the team, covering every blade of grass and breaking up opposition attacks. Partnered with Nemanja Matić, the duo provided a platform for Chelsea’s attacking players to flourish. -
Fluid Front Three:
Eden Hazard and Pedro operated as inside forwards, cutting inside to support Diego Costa, who led the line with physicality and lethal finishing. This trio combined for 46 goals in the league, with Costa netting 20 and Hazard 16.
The Key Moments of the Season
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The Tactical Masterclass Against Manchester United (October 2016)
Chelsea’s 4-0 demolition of Manchester United at Stamford Bridge demonstrated the 3-4-3’s attacking potential. Goals from Pedro, Gary Cahill, Eden Hazard, and N’Golo Kanté highlighted the system’s fluidity. -
Victory Over Tottenham at Stamford Bridge (November 2016)
Chelsea’s 2-1 comeback win ended Spurs’ unbeaten start to the season. The team’s defensive resilience and clinical counterattacking were on full display. -
Breaking Records with a 13-Game Winning Streak
Chelsea equalled the Premier League record for consecutive wins, setting the tone for their march to the title. Notable victories during this run included a 3-1 win against Manchester City and a 4-2 triumph over Stoke City. -
Decisive Win Over Everton (April 2017)
A 3-0 victory at Goodison Park effectively sealed the title for Chelsea, with stunning goals from Pedro and Hazard.
The Records and Achievements
Chelsea’s dominance in the 2016/17 season was backed by extraordinary stats:
- Points Tally: 93 (a Premier League record at the time)
- Goals Scored: 85
- Clean Sheets: 16
Conte’s side also boasted remarkable consistency, with 3-4-3 becoming synonymous with their identity. Their ability to transition seamlessly between defence and attack made them virtually unplayable at times.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s 2016/17 Premier League-winning campaign was more than just a triumph; it was a tactical revolution. Antonio Conte’s introduction of the 3-4-3 formation reshaped English football and delivered one of the most dominant seasons in Premier League history. This iconic season solidified Chelsea’s place among England’s elite and cemented Conte’s reputation as one of football’s foremost tacticians.