Roman Abramovich has revealed his intentions to end his near two-decade association with Chelsea.
After ceding the care and stewardship of the reigning European champions over the past week, he has now taken that a step further with his decision.
Should a deal be secured at some point in the near future, then it would signal a huge shift at Stamford Bridge with Abramovich having been a key figure in the club’s success since his original 2003 takeover.
Of course, there will be plenty of noise and rumours following his decision so football.london has elected to take a look at what is officially being said within the walls of Stamford Bridge.
Roman Abramovich
The first official line from the club of course came from current owner Abramovich as he signalled his intentions to cash-in on the Blues.
Taking to Chelsea’s official website, the Russian billionaire said: “I would like to address the speculation in the media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC.
“As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart. In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the club, the fans, the employees, as well as the club’s sponsors and partners.
“The sale of the club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and club.
“Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated. The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine. This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
“Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the club.
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person. It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart."
Thomas Tuchel
Following the news that Abramovich was looking to sell in the near future, boss Thomas Tuchel also managed to give his thoughts.
Speaking after the Blues’ FA Cup win against Luton Town, he said: "It's a bit too early as it's big news. It's a bit too early for me to speak. I can only think about Chelsea with Roman Abramovich, so it's very hard for me. It didn't sink in yet this is going to stop. It's a massive change.”
"I'm not so much worried as I still feel privileged and in a good place,” the German continued. “I hope and trust for the best. I'm so much a person who worries about things I can't influence.
"It's big news and will be big change, but I am also never afraid of change and I'll focus on what I can influence. This is the staff and team at Cobham."
John Terry
Now back at Chelsea in an Academy coaching consultancy role, former Chelsea captain John Terry has also had his say on Abramovich’s exit.
He paid tribute to the Blues’ owner via a post on Instagram.
The ex-defender wrote: “Thank you Roman @ChelseaFC.
“The best owner in the WORLD."
