Three key fixtures that could define Chelsea’s season between now and the New Year

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Manchester City vs Chelsea (03/12/16)

This is a huge match and one that will show us a lot about both sides. Under Pep Guardiola, Manchester City are the frontrunners to finish the season as champions, but they have had a tricky period recently. The Spaniard is still adjusting to the league and it can be argued that the Chelsea squad have adapted to Conte’s methods quicker than City have adapted to Guardiola’s. That could give Chelsea the advantage in this match. Although it isn’t a game that Chelsea need to win, avoiding defeat would provide a major boost to their title hopes.

In recent seasons, it has been a tight match with both teams picking up some notable victories. Last season, the Blues managed to thrash City in the FA Cup with the match ending in a 5-1 victory. However, they lost both league matches 3-0 and that highlights the difference between the two sides last season. Chelsea struggled to compete with the very best sides in the league and that is something that needs to change under Conte, especially if they want to challenge for major honours again. The match at the start of December will give us a major indication of how good this Chelsea team could be.