Chelsea received the impact of the heat of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The Russian military operation in Ukraine has been going on for more than a week and it has had an impact on the Blues, which is owned by a Russian businessman, Roman Abramovich.
Given his situation as the owner of the club and also the country of birth which is currently ‘isolated’ in the world, Abramovich decided to sell Chelsea which he has owned since 2003 (19 years).
“I would like to address the speculation in the media over the last few days regarding my ownership of Chelsea FC. I always make decisions with the interests of the Club in mind,” Chelsea said in a statement quoting Abramovich.
“Under the current circumstances, I have taken the decision to sell the club because I believe it is in the best interest of Chelsea, its supporters, employees, sponsors and partners.”
“This sale will not be accelerated, but will follow the proper process. I will not ask for any loans to be repaid,” Abramovich explained.
Abramovich’s departure was followed by Chelsea legend, Paulo Ferreira. According to Football.London the Portuguese man left the Technical Coach role at Chelsea to return to Portugal and be close to his family.
Ferreira, 43, who is also the club’s ambassador, has worked with Chelsea’s loan player system since retiring in 2013. At the same time Ferreira is also studying for a coaching license. Now he left Chelsea following in Abramovich’s footsteps, although for different reasons.
Ferreira joined Chelsea as a player from Porto 18 years ago (2004) for a fee of 13.2 million pounds. During the nine years Ferreira, who played at right-back, made more than 217 appearances.
Ferreira has also won 11 major trophies including three Premier League titles, the Europa League and the Champions League. After retiring Ferreira helped the development of Chelsea’s young players, especially from the academy.
Ferreira’s departure leaves Claude Makelele, Carlo Cudicini, John Terry, Tore Andre Flo and Petr Cech as former players who are now in Chelsea management.