Thomas Tuchel has questioned the priorities of the UK Government after further calls for Chelsea fan to stop chanting Roman Abramovich's name.
The Blues were placed under several sanctions after their Russian owner saw his assets frozen by the UK Government. Abramovich is looking to sell the club, which will end his 19-year ownership, and fans have been keen to pay tribute to the 55-year-old.
Chelsea supporters have sang the billionaire's name at several away games now despite calls for them to stop. The matter has since been addressed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesman, who believes such actions needs to come to a stop.
“We recognise the strength of feeling around people’s clubs but that does not excuse behaviour which is completely inappropriate at this time,” he said. “I think people can show passion and support for their club without resorting to that sort of stuff.”
Tuchel himself told Chelsea fans that chanting the owner's name whilst tributes were being held in support of Ukraine was not right. The German has been forced to field continued questions on Abramovich and the club's uncertain future.
He has now been quizzed on the situation after it was discussed by No.10 and has asked whether, with some much going on in other areas of life, addressing Chelsea fans should be on the agenda for Downing Street.
Tuchel said: "I don't know if this is the most important topic to discuss in Parliament. If this is what they discuss, then maybe we have to worry about their priorities."
Chelsea's current license, which is allowing them to continue operating despite the sanctions placed upon them, would prohibit a sale. However, the Government have confirmed that they would consider an alternative license to allow a sale to take place.
“We are open to the sale of the club, we would consider an application for a licence to allow that to happen in the right circumstances,” the spokesman added. Chelsea are not short of potential suitors as various bidders look to make an offer for the Premier League outfit.
Property developer and Blues fan Nick Candy is among those weighing up a swoop and has spoken of his desire to involve fans if he were successful. He said recently: “I have supported Chelsea since I was the age of four.
"My dad was asked to play for Chelsea. I love Chelsea. I don’t mind where it ends up, even if it’s not with me, as long as it’s in safe hands.” The US firm handling the sale, Raine Group, has extended the deadline for bids to 18 March and plenty could be made by that Friday deadline.
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