The billionaire, who is said to be close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, had a message distributed through his English Premier League club on Saturday evening (February 26, 2022). “I have delegated the responsibility and care of Chelsea FC to trustees of the Chelsea Charity Foundation”it said.
Full or temporary withdrawal?
It remains unclear whether Abramovich will withdraw from the operative business of the “Blues” permanently or only temporarily. “In my almost 20 years as Chelsea FC owner, I have always seen my role as the custodian of the club, whose job is to ensure we are as successful as we can be today, while also planning for the future and playing a positive role in society as well. I have always made decisions in the best interest of the club. I remain committed to these values.”continued Abramovich.
Even before his statement, the German team manager Thomas Tuchel, who meets with Chelsea in the final of the League Cup on Sunday at Liverpool FC, had admitted the impact of the debate about the donor on the club. “We shouldn’t pretend this isn’t an issue. The situation for me and my staff, the players is terrible”, said Tuchel. The situation is a big one for the club “Uncertainty”according to the team manager, “But it’s much worse for the people who are really affected. Our best wishes, our thoughts are with you, that’s the most important thing.”