Bang!

Russian oligarch Abramovich retires from Chelsea - after almost 20 years

Created: 02/27/2022, 07:00

By: Marius Epp, Patrick Freiwah

Roman Abramovich relinquishes leadership of Chelsea.

© Anthony Anex/dpa

In the wake of developments in Ukraine, the Russian owner of Chelsea FC announces his departure from the London club.

The statement is emotional.

London/Munich – Roman Abramowitsch, previous owner of the Premier League club FC Chelsea*, is leaving his long-standing field of activity with immediate effect!

The reason is the escalating conflict in Ukraine.

 "During the nearly 20 years that I have owned Chelsea FC I have always seen myself as the custodian of the club whose job it is to ensure that we are as successful as we can be today while playing a positive role in our community "Said Abramovich, under whose aegis two Champions League * triumphs came about.

Hammer at Chelsea: Boss Roman Abramovich announces withdrawal

Abramovich is a confidant of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the oligarchs could soon face tough sanctions.

In England, speculation has increased in recent days that the Chelsea owner could give up the club.

Now it happened.

Abramovich may still have a back door open, because: He is only giving up the lead and will probably not leave the club entirely.

The administration of the club of Thomas Tuchel, Antonio Rüdiger, Kai Havertz and Timo Werner was initially transferred to the trustees of the non-profit Chelsea Foundation.

"I believe that they are currently in the best position to protect the interests of the club, the players, the staff and the fans," the statement concludes.

Chelsea FC: Thomas Tuchel complains about “terrible situation”

Coach Tuchel recently said: "The situation for me, my employees and the players is terrible." It remains to be seen whether the withdrawal is a final decision.

The fact is: Abramovich is still the owner of the club.

According to reports, the measure could also just be a window dressing - the Russians may continue to operate in the background.

In any case, it is almost impossible that it is not a valid reason for the withdrawal.

Because Chelsea FC is something like Abramovich's life's work.