Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has, on Saturday, released an official statement regarding his situation at the club, amid the ongoing backlash against his home country of Russia.
In a announcement across the club's social media platforms, the beloved Blues chief confirmed his intention to, for the time being at least, 'give trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC':
''During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the Club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities. 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.''
Blues to suffer?
What Abramovich's statement actually means for his position at Chelsea in the long-term, at present, remains unclear.
One thing that goes without saying, though, is that Vladimir Putin's decision to invade Ukraine across the week to date has and will continue to have disastrous consequences for Russian businesses and organisations across the globe.
*Update* - Further insight into the situation has since been provided by Chelsea reporter Nizaar Kinsella:
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