Five significant Premier League moves which decided the title since 2000
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There have been a number of high-profile signings in the Premier League over the years which have made a huge impact, often being the difference to a club winning England’s top flight title.
Every year, there is often one defining, individual signing who is the difference between success and failure and it could be the case this year. As a result, Coral look back at five signings who were the vital ingredient needed to guarantee glory.
Jens Lehman to Arsenal: 2003/04
After David Seaman left, the club experimented for a season, though couldn’t find anyone who came close to the quality that England’s number had. They were solid all over the field, minus a couple of tweaks, though the big difference was between the sticks. When Lehman arrived there was a sense of uncertainty, however, he was the missing link and the Gunners won the league the following season.
Jose Mourinho to Chelsea: 2004/05
After winning the Champions League the season before, new wealthy owner Roman Abramovich wasted no time at all in signing the Portuguese manager up. Needless to say, Chelsea dominated the Premier League that year, with Mourinho changing the whole philosophy at club and instilling a winning mentality.
Sergio Aguero to Manchester City: 2011/12
The Argentine strike sensation won the Premier League on the last day of the season for City and automatically became a hero among fans as it prevented their fierce cross-city rivals from winning. As well as this, he scored a superb hat-trick on his debut and was undoubtedly the difference for the club.
Robin van Persie to Manchester United: 2012/13
Sir Alex Ferguson responded to the heart-wrenching disappointment on the final day of the season before by bringing in deadly Dutchman Van Persie from Arsenal. The effect was almost immediate as United claimed back the title from City, with their new striker having a huge impact.
Diego Costa to Chelsea: 2014/15
Having not had quite enough to win the league the season before, Chelsea splashed out £32.5m to bring in one of Europe’s most feared frontmen. As a result, the Blues were crowned champions of England once again, as Costa became almost unplayable.
Petr Cech to Arsenal: 2015/16?
Watch this space. The Gunners are 4/1 with Coral to win the Premier League!
