In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Roman Abramovich confirmed his intention to sell Chelsea.
Following the invasion of Ukraine, the Russian has been under increasing pressure to sell the club and took the decision to formally announce his plans to do so in an emotional statement to supporters.
Since the 55-year-old replaced Ken Bates in ownership back in 2003, Chelsea have won every major club trophy available and have established themselves as one of the world’s leading clubs. A major player in the transfer market, they are almost unrecognisable from the team, or indeed club, Bates sold.
Quite what will happen next is unclear but Abramovich’s statement - posted on Chelsea’s official website - spoke of the pain this decision has caused him.
A popular figure amongst the fanbase after so much investment, his name was chanted amongst sections of the support during the FA Cup fifth round meeting with Luton Town, which kicked-off less than an hour after the statement was released.
“Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner,” he wrote.
“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.”
