Antonio Conte has called Chelsea’s predicament following Roman Abramovich’s sanctioning is “a pity” and says he “hopes for the best” for his former club.
Abramovich has had his assets frozen by the UK Government over his links to Vladimir Putin in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Chelsea have been granted a special licence to continue football operations, but cannot sell tickets for matches, nor sign players or renew contracts as part of a number of restrictions.
The situation has led to huge uncertainty over the club’s future while Thomas Tuchel and his players are tasked with focusing on matters on the pitch as they face Norwich in the Premier League this evening.
Tottenham boss Conte won the Premier League and FA Cup while in charge of Chelsea under Abramovich’s ownership, and spoke of his continued affection for the club at a press conference on Thursday.
“It is not easy, is not easy,” he said. “Honestly, it’s a pity, also because I was coach in this club, in Chelsea, I enjoyed two seasons. Also, I won two titles, I worked in this club. It’s a pity to listen to this situation, it’s not simple for the players, it’s not simple for Thomas Tuchel, for the fans, for the whole environment, Chelsea environment.
“Honestly, I hope that in general, that this situation between Russia and Ukraine is going to finish, and to find a peace, because it’s too important. And then, other situations that are coming, from this conflict. I think that it’s not right.
“I hope for the best, for this club. Because I worked in this club, I enjoyed the two seasons. For sure, I love the team, the club, that I worked in the past. Every team that worked in the past I love. I hope for the best for them.”
