the 2009–10 premier league (known as the barclays premier league for sponsorship reasons) was the 18th season of the premier league since its establishment in 1992. a total of 20 teams competed in the league, with chelsea unseating the three-time defending champions manchester united, scoring a then premier league record 103 goals in the process. the season began on 15 august 2009 and concluded on 9 may 2010. prior to each opening week match, a minute's applause was held in memory of sir bobby robson. nike provided a new match ball – the t90 ascente – for this season. barclays sponsored the league.