Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Júnior
It was another season full of drama at Stamford Bridge, and although it didn't all go our way there were plenty of memories to savour. Whether it was Willian's set-piece perfection or Eden Hazard's late flurry of goals, the Blues provided glorious moments during a challenging campaign. Once again, London rivals Arsenal were beaten home and away while the second-half comeback against Tottenham will live long in the memory of any Chelsea fan. Additionally, further breakthroughs from a host of youngsters offered Blues fans glimpses of a bright future.
The most dominant team in Premier League history. That's what the stats say as Chelsea stormed to their fifth title with a record-breaking run in pole position. Manager, José Mourinho assembled a squad that combined devastating attacking invention with ruthless determination in defence. Irresistible force and immovable object. Among the highlights of a memorable campaign were the genius of Eden Hazard and the flair of Oscar and Willian complemented by the driving force up front of Diego Costa and the midfield mastery of Cesc Fàbregas. Nemanja Matic, a colossus in front of the best defence in the country, led by the indomitable skipper, John Terry, whose consistently outstanding performances have rolled back the years. Ten years on from José's first incredible season in charge, the Blues replicated that double triumph by also capturing the Capital One Cup at Wembley against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. The foundations have been well and truly re-laid.
Back at the club he loves and back with the fans who love him, José Mourinho returned to provide a captivating season from beginning to the very end. A squad that included legends Frank Lampard, John Terry and Petr Čech combined with the attacking talent of Eden Hazard, Willian and Oscar formed the nucleus of a terrifically talented team, guided by a tactical mastermind. In the Barclays Premier League, the Blues outplayed and outmanoeuvred their closest rivals in the biggest games, with stunning doubles over Manchester City and Liverpool, and comprehensive victories against Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal. In the UEFA Champions League, a reunion with Didier Drogba followed a dramatic, last gasp win over PSG took Chelsea to the brink of another European final.
After an eventful season Chelsea fans were once again able to enjoy the sweet taste of success. Having already won the Champions League and Cup Winners' Cup, Chelsea's Europa League glory this season made them the first English side to join the elite band of clubs who have completed the European treble. Throughout the season Chelsea contested 8 different trophies and played in a record-breaking number of matches (69!). Memorable results included reaching the semi-finals in both the FA Cup and League Cup, as well as clinching an automatic Champions League spot following a tense battle for 3rd place between three London rivals. The 2012/13 season also saw Frank Lampard rewrite club history yet again by surpassing Bobby Tambling and becoming the all-time leading goalscorer with 203 goals; a record that will likely stand for many years to come.
