Chelsea have been plunged into a state of limbo after oligarch owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK Government. New embargoes placed on the 55-year-old include asset freezes and travel restrictions due to his alleged association with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he “will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies,” following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003 and his billions transformed the club into one of European football’s powerhouses - winning two Champions Leagues and five Premier League titles during an era of dominance.
However, these sanctions now pose severe implications on the London club. While Chelsea will continue to play fixtures and pay wages, only season ticket holders can attend games as no matchday revenue can be earned. Replica shirts and merchandise are also scrapped and the sale of the club is now barred. Crucially, the Blues will be forbidden from signing players or extending the contract of existing ones - opening the door for Newcastle to seize an opportunity.
