There has been a total of 28 completed English top-flight seasons since the old first division was replaced by the money machine of the Premier League.
For the younger generation, football only began in 1992 and of those 28 completed seasons only 8 of them has been won by clubs from the capital.
In fact, only Chelsea and Arsenal have contributed to the city’s Premier League trophy haul in that time, but could the tally be extended come the end of the 2020/21 season? And not just extended, but rather dominated?
The signs are looking strong with Tottenham’s shrewd signings and management of Jose Mourinho guiding them to the summit of the table at the time of writing and Chelsea seemingly heading back to the early Abramovich years with the purse strings significantly loosened.
It looks promising for an all London one-two come May, but if it does happen, it won’t be the first time it has occurred.
Previous London one/two finishes
Three times the capital has boasted the two best domestic teams in England. The first instance occurred during the 2003/04 season which was memorable for Arsenal as they the entire season unbeaten on their way to lifting the crown.
Chelsea came home in the runners up spot to record their best ever Premier League finish.
However, the Blues did not have to wait long to take the next step as it was rolls reversed the following season as Jose Mourinho guided Chelsea to their first Premier League title with Arsenal coming home second.
The 2016/17 season also saw the capital dominate the league as Antonio Conte led the Blues to their fifth Premier League title with Mauricio Pochettino handing Tottenham their best ever Premier League finish with second.
What is the likelihood of history repeating itself?
Higher than one may have thought at the start of the season. Last season Chelsea finished a whopping 33-points behind eventual winners Liverpool but still managed to qualify for the Champions League.
The situation was even worse for Spurs who finished a seismic 40-points behind the Reds, but a lot has changed since then.
For instance, both Tottenham and Chelsea have strengthed in the playing department significantly with both sides investing in experience and proven talent.
Chelsea have added the powerhouse of Thiago Silva, the defensive prowess of Ben Chilwell and the goals of Timo Werner (to name but a few) whilst Tottenham have added strength in defence with the ever consistent Matt Doherty, and youthful ability of Sergio Reguilón whilst adding the star quality of a returning Gareth Bale.
Add into the mix that both clubs’ managers have now had their own transfer windows and time with the squads and the results are clear for all to see.
Both sides have played ten games this season and only lost one each. However, such was the gap last season to Liverpool and even Manchester City is wise not to get to carried away, but with City struggling in defence and on the goal front and Liverpool’s squad starting to age, now is the perfect opportunity for London to once again become the powerhouse of English football.
