Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has suggested nothing is set to change at Stamford Bridge despite Roman Abramovich’s recent decision to step back.
The Russian owner made a stark statement on Saturday evening confirming his intentions to step away from the day-to-day running of the Blues amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine - with Trustees of the Chelsea Foundation now being effectively handed the reigns.
His statement read: "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.”
From a legal and business perspective, whilst it means that Abramovich may no longer be involved in the key decision making at the club for the foreseeable future, he still retains the ownership of the current European champions.
Following his side’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Liverpool, Tuchel has an offered an update on the situation and suggested from his viewpoint at the very least, very little is set to change.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, he said: "For the news yesterday [Saturday], I think that it will change absolutely nothing for me on a daily basis. This is how I understand it.
"I am in close contact with Marina and Petr Cech to run the first team of football at Chelsea Football Club and give my input and to take care about this.
"I give my very best that we are able to win football matches and this will not change. I think it will not change with the news from yesterday."
Tuchel and Abramovich have of course enjoyed a profitable relationship since the German arrived in west London a year ago.
He has claimed the club’s second Champions League title, whilst also adding the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup to the club’s trophy cabinet.
