Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has released a club statement amid uncertainty surrounding the club’s future.
The 55-year-old has taken the decision to step back to protect the club from reputational damage following Russia's attempted invasion of Ukraine. Abramovich has always denied close links to Russian president Vladmir Putin.
The owner’s official statement on the club website reads: “During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the Club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities.
“I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values.
“That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.
“I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the Club, players, staff, and fans.”
The implications of the statement are currently unknown, though it most likely will become clearer in the coming days and weeks as to what the change will entail.
What it could impact for Chelsea though, is the more immediate future and the Carabao Cup final.
The Blues are set to march out onto the hallowed turf of Wembley in less than 24 hours, looking to add the League Cup to their collection, having already won the European Super Cup and Club World Cup this season.
Thomas Tuchel has already discussed how the reports over the future of the club have “distracted” his players ahead of the important tie.
Speaking on Friday, the German coach said: “I am aware of all these scenarios and I am aware of all these discussions at the moment.
“I would love to take my right not to comment on this until there is a decision made. But we are aware of it and it’s distracting us, it’s worrying us.
“To a certain degree I can understand the opinions and the critical opinions towards the club, towards us who represent that club. I can understand that and we cannot fully free ourselves from it.”
