Chelsea Q&A on what sanctioning means for the club
Chelsea Q&A: Will Thomas Tuchel’s side be able to COMPLETE the season after Roman Abramovich’s sanctioning? And could it lead to a fire-sale of their top stars during the summer window?
- Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
- It has left Chelsea in limbo with club activities now severely limited
- Sportsmail takes a look at the main questions fans may have over the news
Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK government which has left Chelsea in limbo with their club activities now severely limited.
On Thursday the club were banned from selling match tickets and were even forced to close their club shop as Russian owner Abramovich was added to the UK’s sanctions list following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Sportsmail takes a look what the sanctioning means for the club going forward, as Abramovich looks to sell the club unable to buy or sell players, as well not able to sign any of their current squad to new contracts.
Roman Abramovich’s sanctioning by the UK government has left Chelsea in limbo
Will Chelsea finish the season?
There are concerns at Stamford Bridge that the licence terms the Government have forced Chelsea to work under puts this at risk. However, the club failing to fulfil their fixtures helps nobody.
They are seeking amendments to the licence which they believe will allow them to complete the campaign.
Is Roman Abramovich still in control?
While the asset has been frozen, Abramovich is still the owner of Chelsea. The daily operations will be carried out by the board but Abramovich cannot profit from the running of the club.
Despite his sanctioning, Roman Abramovich is still in charge but can’t profit from the club
Will there be a player fire-sale?
No. Chelsea are unable to buy or sell players. The aim of the sanctions is to stop Abramovich from making money from his asset. A fire-sale would not be a good look.
What does it mean for fans?
Chelsea have around 28,000 season ticket holders. Both they and supporters who have already bought tickets for away matches will be permitted to attend.
Again, the club will seek amendments to the licence to permit them to sell tickets for future matches. Brentford have already said they want their full allocation for the forthcoming London derby and are seeking urgent clarification.
A fire-sale would not be a good look as the sanctions are to stop Abramovich making money
The club will seek amendments so that they can sell tickets for future matches this season
What about cup ties not included in season tickets?
As it stands, the club could not sell tickets for any cup ties. That said, they will find allies at UEFA and the FA in trying to change that, with a view that fans should not be penalised.
Will they fall foul of Financial Fair Play?
Yes, but it is likely that UEFA would make an exception thanks to what has now become an extraordinary case. The aim is to get the club into new hands. Putting off potential bidders with financial penalties is not helpful.
Can they still provide matchday catering?
Yes, supporters will still be able to buy food and drink at home matches.
Chelsea would fall foul of Financial Fair Play though it’s expected UEFA would make an exception
Share this article
Source: Read Full Article