Chelsea will not be able to sell tickets to any future Champions League matches at Stamford Bridge while Roman Abramovich has ownership of the club. The sanctions imposed on the Blues owner by the EU means they will have to play any future home European games behind closed doors.
The west London outfit are in Champions League action this evening as they take on French club Lille away from home, boasting a 2-0 advantage going into the second-leg. If Chelsea do progress into the quarter-final, then whichever leg is at home will be played in an empty stadium.
A UEFA statement on Tuesday read: "UEFA is fully committed to always implementing relevant EU and international sanctions. Our understanding is that the present case is assessed in the context of the licence issued in the UK which allows Chelsea FC to continue minimum football activity whilst providing a safeguard that no financial gain will result for Mr Abramovich.
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"We will work with the EU and relevant member states to ensure we have full clarity and remain in lockstep with all relevant and applicable measures in line with latest developments."
The Blues are actively looking to try and sort out the off-field chaos that has been present in recent weeks. There is a deadline on Friday for any potential buyers to make an offer for the reigning European champions.
British businessman Nick Candy, who is a lifelong supporter of Chelsea, has registered his interest. However, while he's keen, he is not thought to be a serious contender right now, with Candy still looking for someone to help him fund an offer.
There are also few parties from overseas who are keen on the purchase from Abramovich. Todd Boehly and Hansjorg Wyss are leading a consortium, with a keen interest in Chelsea. Meanwhile, Robert "Woody" Johnson, the owner of the New York Jets, while not commenting on the situation, is also said to be keen, with the Ricketts family also one of the front-runners.
