Shockwaves have been sent through European football following Roman Abramovich’s decision to sell Chelsea amid the situation involving his home country Russia.
Abramovich has owned Chelsea since 2003, changing the fortunes of the West London club dramatically.
The Blues went from top four challengers to winning the Champions League twice, also winning a host of Premier League titles.
But Abramovich’s reign is to come to an abrupt end due to his involvement with Russia president Vladimir Putin.
Abramovich is known to have close ties with the Russian president, who has ordered a full scale invasion of Ukraine in the last week.
The death toll is racking up on both sides, with Ukraine defending their country valiantly while appealing to their neighbour to stop their ruthless attacks.
The attacks and Abramovich’s close relationship with Putin has put him in a vulnerable position, with UK officials calling for his assets, including Chelsea, to be seized.
Up until this point, they have not been frozen, and Abramovich is looking to take advantage by selling the club, with a price tag of more than £2billion quotes.
The full Abramovich statement can be found below.
“I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC. As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the Club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the Club, the fans, the employees, as well as the Club’s sponsors and partners.
“The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and Club.
“Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated. The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine.
“This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
“Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the Club.
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person.
“It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart.
“Thank you. Roman.”
