Chelsea Football Club’s co-controlling owners, Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, are reportedly backing under-pressure manager Graham Potter, as they look to replicate the success of Mikel Arteta’s turnaround at Arsenal.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 18: Graham Potter, Manager of Chelsea looks dejected during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on February 18, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 18: Graham Potter, Manager of Chelsea looks dejected during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on February 18, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Despite Chelsea’s poor form this season, the club’s hierarchy is believed to be standing by Potter, viewing his appointment as a long-term investment in the club’s philosophy.

The board is reportedly looking to the example set by Arsenal, who continued to back Arteta during difficult times, despite calls for his sacking. This faith has been rewarded, with Arsenal now sitting at the top of the Premier League and aiming for their first title since 2004.

Chelsea’s American owners have invested significantly in Potter’s vision for the club, recruiting administrative and recruitment staff from Brighton who share his philosophy.

Dismissing Potter now could raise serious questions over these backroom appointments, made only months ago.

While qualifying for the Champions League is not believed to be a pivotal factor in Potter’s future, the pressure on him will increase if the team’s results do not improve soon.

Chelsea are hoping that Potter can replicate Arteta’s success if given more time to enforce his own principles on the squad.

They have won just nine of their 25 games under Potter. To compare, in Arteta’s first ever 25 games in management, he won 14, including an FA Cup semi-final win over City.

The FA Cup final was game 28.