The sanctions, which had been anticipated from the moment Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine, explained Abramovich’s decision to dispose of Chelsea and brought an ignominious end to his reign in English football, during which Chelsea won 31 trophies across their men’s and women’s teams.Ĭhelsea, as an institution of community value, received a licence to sell up even though Abramovich’s assets were frozen, but the government made this conditional on the funds raised from a sale being directed to the victims of war in Ukraine via a new foundation. Within a week, the European Union followed suit. For the sake of all involved parties (speaking as a human being now, not a football supporter), I hope that day comes sooner rather than later.His assets in the UK were frozen, he was banned from travelling to the country and it is forbidden for any British citizen or company to do business with him. In all likelihood, he will resume his post once the fighting in Ukraine subsides. Nevertheless, even though he has stepped down from his role as owner for the time being, his future is as clear as ever. There are obviously always going to be suitors getting their ducks in a row at the first mention in the media of Abramovich wanting to sell. As the owner, he is invested in making the world a better place and there’s something to be said for that at the end of the day. While one still must acknowledge his shady business history, there is no question that he genuinely cares about the Chelsea community. The English government has done what it can to defame the reputation of the Russian recently. I don’t think it’s too farfetched to say that many of the Blues supporters share those feelings for their owner, as well.

The Russian absolutely loves his football club, its staff and most importantly, its fans. The Blues are perhaps the model for how a football club should be run as they have perfected success on the pitch, as a business and as a staple in the community.ĭespite Abramovich’s plans to step away for the time being, there is no questioning his long-term commitment. Chelsea is undoubtedly one of the business projects Abramovich is most proud of and it’s easy to understand why. The club finally looks to have established a model for long-term success on both fronts, as well. Chelsea has also provided a lot of assistance to the local communities in west London during the COVID-19 pandemic and it remains heavily invested in numerous charities to kick discrimination of all forms out of the sport. The Blues were recently crowned Champions of the World for the first time following their triumph at the FIFA Club World Cup, which represented the pinnacle of Abramovich’s near-two decades as owner. He’s put a lot of time and effort into building a successful brand both on and off the pitch. Yet, any discussion regarding his eagerness to sell is completely fabricated.Ībramovich remains as committed to Chelsea as ever. I can count on one hand how many times the Blues’ owner has travelled to England (that we know of, at least) ever since. Abramovich has settled down in Israel, where he recently became a citizen. These talks stemmed from the Russian’s visa being expired, his refusal of entry and subsequent removal of another visa application.

What does Roman Abramovich’s decision mean for the future?įootball media has built this narrative over the last four years that Abramovich seems interested in selling Chelsea. (Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images) 4. ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – FEBRUARY 12: Thomas Tuchel the manager / head coach of Chelsea and Roman Abrahimovic owner of Chelsea during the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2021 Final match between Chelsea v Palmeiras at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium on Februin Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

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