There are many reasons for Premier League clubs to be hated. Geographical rivalries, past controversial flashpoints, or simply being frustratingly good are all valid reasons for scorn in the world of soccer fandom.

But if one Premier League team had to be identified as the biggest magnet for fan hatred, it would be Chelsea.

In 2018, this theory of loathing was backed up by a survey that found the Blues to be the Premier League’s most-hated side. Apparently, 67.8% of those polled found the southwest London outfit to be their most reviled rival.

To be fair, Chelsea have added plenty of fuel to the fire. When they were taken over by Russian Oligarch Roman Abramovich in 2003, they represented the first of a batch of nouveaux riches teams who bought instant success. Their subsequent titles were purchased by petrodollars of dubious ethical origin, rather than being earned through the traditional manner. (Which is to be part of a cabal of big wealthy clubs with “heritage.” Upsetting the establishment is frowned upon, you see.)

View photos When did Christian Pulisic, Frank Lampard and Chelsea become so darn likable? (REUTERS/Hannah McKay) More

Chelsea’s reputation was not helped by the unfettered arrogance of two-time manager Jose Mourinho. His put-downs were unprecedented, his press conferences were biting, and the manner in which he effectively relieved a female physio staff of her duties was completely unedifying. In many ways, The Special One is Chelseas’s perceived “lack of class” personified.

On the field, players such as Ashley Cole and Diego Costa have played the role of pantomime villain. And while “Captain, Leader, Legend” John Terry may have led the charge in some important battles, his alleged use of racist language, liberal approach to dalliances with his teammate’s romantic partners and repeated socially unacceptable behavior have tarnished the club. Neutral fans can only wonder how a man who has been caught several times parking in disabled parking spaces deserves such reverence from the fanbase.

And speaking of the fanbase, they have done little to endear themselves to the general soccer community. Whether it is racist train attacks in Paris, or a history of hooliganism that extends long before the Premier League era, Blues supporters are not renowned for endearing behavior.

There remains plenty of ill feeling towards Chelsea Football Club. But if the 2018 survey that branded them the most hated Premier League club was conducted today, the results may be different.

Whisper it quietly: Chelsea, whether by design or circumstance, have become quite likable.

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In theory, The Blues were set up for failure in the 2019-20 season. They sold Eden Hazard — their best player, who has undoubtedly been the difference-maker in recent seasons — and were unable to bring in any reinforcements due to their transfer ban. With expectations lowered, the club eschewed their policy of bringing in a proven continental manager for a former player, Frank Lampard, whose coaching experience extended to a single season of Championship soccer.

When they lost their season opener by a 4-0 scoreline at Old Trafford, the writing was on the wall: This would be a rebuilding season. The fans who had enjoyed 16 trophies in the previous 16 seasons would have to grin and bear it.

Twelve games into the season, however, an entirely different narrative has unfolded.

For starters, Lampard is putting smiles on faces with Chelsea’s style of play. While Maurizio Sarri’s style was methodical and ponderous, Lampard is directing his charges to move the ball into the final third with pace and precision. As a result, they are scoring plenty of goals — at least two in each of their last five outings.

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