There is renewed optimism around Stamford Bridge after a summer that has propelled the club back to where it will feel it belongs
What a difference a few months can make in football. In April, Chelsea's season was in serious danger of unravelling as they floundered in the gruelling pursuit of a top-five place and, consequently, the finger was being pointed in the direction of then-maligned head coach Enzo Maresca.
Fast-forward to August and the resurgent Blues have secured their return to the Champions League, they have added to their trophy cabinet and, against all odds, they are world champions - with Maresca's stock at an all-time high.
Unsurprisingly, it's been another frenzied summer of transfer business at Stamford Bridge as the club looks to consolidate that success, but a somewhat more measured approach has seen them strengthen in problem areas, while plenty of deadwood has been cut away. On the eve of the new season, there is significant anticipation surrounding what an exciting squad is capable of...