Chelsea Women's boss Emma Hayes has insisted the Blues will continue to be successful in the future amid Roman Abramovich's decision to sell the club.
With the UK government under pressure to sanction the billionaire following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Russian oligarch is looking to sell the Blues.
In a statement on Wednesday night, he confirmed that he was looking to sell the club after days of speculation.
"I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart," he said.
"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 imminent departure raises questions about the future of the women’s team and there is uncertainty over whether the new owner will offer the same financial support.
However, Hayes believes that both teams will be successful moving forward.
"Look, it’s business as usual, I stand by this," Hayes said before her side's 3-1 loss to Manchester City in the FA WSL Cup final, as cited by the Daily Mail.
"Chelsea has been a hugely successful club in my time here and I think Chelsea will continue to be a hugely successful club.
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"Turbulence, for me, is going to come in a time [where] it’s really difficult worldwide, there’s a war going on and it’s a really difficult time I think for everybody worldwide, it’s not specific to Chelsea.
"Chelsea are people and amazing people, across the club, leading in all sections. From Neil Bath, to Thomas Tuchel, to the work we’re doing here - we will be successful going forward, nothing has changed."
Blues fans will be hoping Hayes is right as they enter a new era under new ownership.
