2016 has definitely been the year to remember for N’Golo Kante.
From a fairytale story of winning the league title with the underdogs to reaching the Euro finals, Kante had it all.
The driving force in Leicester City’s league triumph and said to be one of the best in his position, the midfielder then decided to move on with English giants Chelsea after spending just one season at the King Power Stadium.
A steal
Kante, who joined the Foxes just last season signed for a reported fee of £5.6 million from French outfit SM Caen.
With just 37 appearances in the Premier League itself, N’Golo Kante was signed by new Chelsea boss Antonio Conte for £32 million.
The 25 year old received much praise as he consistently managed to show his impressive ability on the pitch which caught the eyes of many football clubs.
It was rumoured that Real Madrid and Arsenal were in the race to sign the Euro 2016 finalist, but he rejected them both and agreed on a move to Stamford Bridge.
Among one of the reasons to ditch Champions League winners Real Madrid was that Antonio Conte was a crucial factor in his decision to move to the London based club.
Influential
Kante was one of the most influential players for both club and country.
At club level, his performances were so remarkable that he made a season record 149 tackles, and was one of the total four players who were nominated for the PFA Player of the Year Award.
Kante was the second player to have signed for the Conte revolution, after Michy Batshuayi was swooped from Marseille.
Blessed with the ability to play as a centre defensive midfielder or a central midfielder, the Premier League medalist knows how to keep control in the centre of the pitch.
Indeed the perfect example for a hardworking Hulk, Kante never seems to get tired by running for the ball and his dedication to win over possession in itself is a huge boost as well as a huge motivation for his new teammates.
Teammates under threat
With the acquisition, it still is doubtful as to where Nemanja Matic and John Obi Mikel would be put to use, considering that they are regularly preferred in the CDM position.
A move could come calling on the Nigerian’s door as well because Mikel looks to be set on lack of playing minutes.
Positive signing
Even after being a considerably short player, the opposition just can’t take N’Golo Kante lightly.
A strong player with the brilliant ability to tackle and keep hold of the ball, he is going to create a massive impact if his fine form is to continue.
Kante looks to be a positive signing and with Conte on the managerial seat, the club can now expect lots of silverware to their name.
Often being compared to Claude Makelele, it is now up to time to see if the Frenchman actually lives up to his comparison and whether he can put an end to Chelsea’s long-time association with Mikel.
Written by Tejas Shetty
Follow Tejas on Twitter @shettytj
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