Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has issued a statement to clarify the acquisition of the club.
Abramovich denied reports alleging that he requested repayment of any loan to him while also denying that he raised the price late in the negotiations.
“Mr. Abramovich has not requested any loan repayment for him – these suggestions are completely wrong – as are suggestions that Mr. Abramovich raised the club’s rate at the last minute,” a statement posted on Chelsea’s website attributed to a spokesperson read Abramovich.
“As part of Mr. Abramovich’s goal of finding a good goalkeeper for Chelsea FC, he has encouraged every bidder throughout this process to commit to investing in the club – including in the academy, the women’s squad and the necessary redevelopment of the stadium as well as maintaining the functioning of the Chelsea Foundation.
“Following the UK’s sanctions and other restrictions imposed on Mr Abramovich since the sale of the club was announced, the loan is also now subject to EU sanctions, which requires additional approvals.
This means that the funds will be frozen and subject to legal procedures governed by the authorities. These funds are still earmarked for the foundation.
The UK government has imposed sanctions on the 55-year-old since March after his alleged relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the wake of the conflict with Ukraine.
Statement on behalf of Mr. Abramovich.
– Chelsea (ChelseaFC) May 5 2022
