Chelsea’s players have reportedly been informed that the club will forego private jets and five-star hotels in light of the club’s financial difficulties.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the club’s owner, Roman Abramovich, had his British assets sanctioned, as Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday morning.
Chelsea are prohibited from selling tickets to home or away fans, agreeing on new transfers or contracts, selling souvenirs, spending more than £20,000 on away travel, or undertaking any construction work at Stamford Bridge.
According to reports, the Blues may now be forced to ’employ budget carriers’ like as Easyjet after players were informed that they will no longer be able to travel to away games via private jet or stay in five-star hotels.
Following Putin’s violent invasion of Ukraine over two weeks ago, brands worldwide have been keen to disassociate themselves from Russia.
Ukraine’s situation is deteriorating daily, with Putin being accused of war crimes for repeatedly bombing cities, striking civilian targets including a children’s hospital.
In another financial blow, automobile manufacturer Hyundai said on Saturday that it was suspending its connection with Chelsea, after shirt sponsor Three’s decision to terminate their £40 million deal with the club.
Abramovich has also been removed from Chelsea’s board of directors, and the government has began negotiations with the oligarch’s advisers over the terms of the sale, which Downing Street is eager to complete as soon as possible.
The Premier League said in a statement: ‘Following the implementation of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League Board has disqualified Roman Abramovich from his position as a director of Chelsea Football Club.’
‘The Board’s decision has no effect on the club’s ability to practice and play its fixtures in accordance with the provisions of a government-issued licence that expires on 31 May 2022.’
Meanwhile, other bidders have expressed an interest in paying more than £2 billion, and Abramovich has reached an agreement with the Government that will allow the sale to proceed.
Initially, Abramovich transferred control of the club to the charity and trustees prior to announcing his plan to sell, but he has now been cornered.
He has reportedly asked The Raine Group to resume the takeover process.