Putin’s war of aggression in Ukraine has dramatic consequences for the English Premier League!
Yesterday the British government imposed tough sanctions on seven Russian oligarchs. The assets of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich (55) were also frozen.
BILD answers the most important questions.
What has the club been banned from doing?
Transfers and contract extensions are taboo. Fan shops were forcibly closed and are no longer allowed to sell online. Retailers are still allowed to bring their stocks of Chelsea items to the fan – as long as the club does not benefit financially from it. Tickets for the home games are no longer sold, only season ticket holders are allowed in.
What else can the club do?
Play! On Thursday, the third-placed side won 3-1 in Norwich with goals from Havertz, Mount, Chalobah – Pukki conceded. A game only thanks to the special license of the government. At home games, Chelsea can continue to offer catering and collect money from the sale of TV rights. The salaries of professionals and employees may also be paid from this.
How is Chelsea reacting?
The club published a statement on its website yesterday afternoon. It says that they want to talk to the government about possible relief.
What does the coach say?
Thomas Tuchel (48) on the BBC: “I’m still happy to be here and still happy to coach a strong team. It’s quite a big change from yesterday to today. But we can’t influence it, we didn’t cause the situation.”
Can Abramovich still sell Chelsea?
Currently not. The British government is currently considering how to proceed. One possibility: a special license that allows him to sell it. Condition: Abramovich must not make a profit from the sale. The Russian announced last week that he wants to sell the club, having allegedly turned down an initial offer of around €3bn.
What are the direct consequences for the team?
Luxury trips to away games should be a thing of the past. From now on, these trips may only cost a maximum of 20,000 pounds (almost 23,700 euros). This rule also applies to the second leg of the Champions League round of 16 in Lille on Wednesday (first leg 2-0).
How are the sponsors reacting?
Shirt sponsor Three yesterday announced they would suspend their £120m (€144m) contract. The mobile phone company joined Chelsea in 2020 for three years.
What are the players saying?
Nothing. So far, no professional has dared to say anything publicly.
Where is Abramovich now?
In Tel Aviv. There he was spotted in a restaurant on Wednesday. Abramovich also has Israeli citizenship and owns a property there.
