Manchester City fans were unmoved by the news Roman Abramovich has put Chelsea up for sale – with some even suggesting the Blues are ‘finished’.
The Chelsea owner announced on Wednesday his decision to put the club up for sale, with Abramovich calling it an “incredibly difficult decision to make”. The announcement comes days after he handed over the “stewardship and care” of Chelsea to the club's charitable foundation.
Abramovich said in a statement on Wednesday evening: “I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC.
ALSO READ: Premier League announce 'show of solidarity' for Ukraine ahead of Man City vs Manchester United
“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.”
Abramovich’s decision could significantly alter the landscape of English football, with Chelsea having been one of the Premier League’s powerhouses since his takeover of the club in 2003. However, City fans don’t seem overly concerned.
Speaking about his decision to sell Chelsea, Abramovich added in his statement: “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.”
Sign up to our City newsletter so you never miss an update from the Etihad Stadium this season.
Catch up on all the latest Blues headlines in our Man City section
