Responses criticizing the handling of the Ukrainian crisis by officials at Chelsea FC have continued, involving the Russian club owner, the German coach, and the Czech technical advisor. Roman Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea, announced on Saturday that he has entrusted the management and care of the club to the Chelsea Charitable Foundation, according to a statement released by the European champions.
Abramovich stated in an official team announcement: "During nearly 20 years of ownership of Chelsea, I have always viewed my role as a guardian of the club, with the mission of ensuring our success as we are today, as well as building for the future and playing a positive role in our communities." He continued, "I have always made decisions with the club's interests in mind above all else. I remain committed to these values. That is why today I am giving the trustees of the Chelsea Foundation the management and care of Chelsea."
The Russian billionaire concluded: "I believe they are now in the best position to act in the interests of the club, players, staff, and supporters," as reported by "AFP." It is expected that Abramovich, whose wealth is estimated at $14 billion according to "Forbes," made this decision to protect Chelsea amid potential sanctions on influential Russians as the war in Ukraine intensifies.
Just as Abramovich avoided commenting on the war waged by his country against Ukraine, Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel made statements that did not address or criticize the situation in Ukraine, telling his players to "focus on sports and not get involved in politics." The technical advisor to Chelsea, Petr Čech, also avoided condemning the Russian military operation in a media interview with "Sky Sports," merely stating: "Getting involved in such matters is a distraction for the players. As a club, we need to prepare for the matches and play normally."
These responses sparked criticism on social media, including from Manchester United legend Gary Neville, who condemned Chelsea's statement and approach to the Ukrainian crisis, labeling it "cowardly," according to the British newspaper "Daily Star." Alongside Neville, former English star Jamie Carragher criticized Chelsea's statement, saying: "The club has embarrassed itself with this statement. They did not handle the situation well."
