Chelsea release 24-word statement on Ukraine after Abramovich gives up control
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Chelsea have released a 24-word statement on the invasion of Ukraine after Roman Abramovich gave up control of the club.
The Blues owner handed his asset over on Saturday and said he was "giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC".
He has come under-fire for his association with Vladimir Putin, the Russian president who launched a military operation on his neighbouring country earlier this week.
Chelsea have now responded with a brief statement which read: "The situation in Ukraine is horrific and devastating. Chelsea FC’s thoughts are with everyone in Ukraine. Everyone at the club is praying for peace."
Abramovich left fans baffled with his own statement which initially didn't make clear if he'd been leaving the club for good.
He wrote: "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."
There is no suggestion Abramovich is in any way involved in the situation in Ukraine, but this week Labour MP Chris Bryant had called for him to be banned from owning the club.
Pundit Micah Richards also moved to criticise the Russian billionaire following his statement, describing it as "poor".
The whole situation has been a major distraction for Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and his squad ahead of the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.
The German coach said earlier this week: "We should not pretend that this is not an issue and I agree.
"The situation for me and for everybody here, for the players, is horrible. Nobody expected this.
"It’s pretty unreal, it’s clouding our minds, clouding excitement towards the final and it brings huge uncertainty."
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