‘Our club is finished’ – Chelsea fans rage after Abramovich sanction

Martin Macdonald

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:55 CDT
• 4 min read

Chelsea fans have been rocked by the news that owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK government.

Due to his links to the Russian government and Vladimir Putin, Abramovich announced last week that he would be looking to sell the club as soon as possible.

Numerous potential buyers emerged, but now any deal is off as he is no longer allowed to be involved in the business negotiations of an asset sale unless certain conditions are met.

READ MORE: What are Chelsea allowed to spend money on following Abramovich sanctions?

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said "there can be no safe havens" for those who have supported the invasion.

"Today's sanctions are the latest step in the UK's unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies," he added.

At the moment, Chelsea are not allowed to:

Renew player contracts

Sell players

Buy players

Sell club merchandise

Sell matchday tickets as only season ticket holders may attend games

There is also speculation that the club's assets may be stripped and that key players may be told to leave, while the contracts of Cesar Azpilicueta, Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger will not be renewed.

However, it is not yet clear at this point where the money received from transfer fees would go.

Chelsea fans reacted to the news with devastation.

The reaction to Abramovich sanction

"Turmoil for Chelsea. This is bad for all of us affiliated with the club" - @Whyiize1

"Chelski fans who chanted Abramovich’s name during the tribute to victims in Ukraine of his mate Putin can console themselves that 55 points means the club probably won’t be relegated this season.

"To decent Chelsea fans - I hope you’re free of the tainted oligarch asap." - @Kevin_Maguire

"This is nothing but a direct attack on Chelsea FC. This isn’t about Roman Abramovich anymore." - @CarefreeJonty

"Chelsea may get a 9 point deduction penalty if they end up in administration.

"This doesn't look like an attack on Roman Abramovich anymore. It's an attack on Chelsea Football Club!" - @Tunnykvng

"Our club is genuinely finished." - @CFC_Nahom