Chelsea Put Out Statement Following Sanctions On Roman Abramovich

Chelsea have put out an official statement, following the sanctions put on by Roman Abramovich, confirming they are trying to get their general licence amended.

On Thursday morning, the government finally announced that they were sanctioning Abramovich, and freezing his assets, which included Chelsea FC.

The news means that the billionaire can't currently sell the club, it also means that they can't buy or sell players, or even renew any contracts.

They have been allowed to continue to operate as a football team, meaning they can still fulfil their games, and players and staff can be paid, under a general licence.

However, with the team unable to even sell merchandise or tickets to games, they have confirmed they've applied to the government to change their licence.

"Chelsea Football Club has been advised that its owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK Government," a statement on the website said.

"By virtue of his 100 per cent ownership of Chelsea FC plc and affiliated entities, Chelsea FC would normally be subject to the same sanctions regime as Mr Abramovich. However, the UK Government has issued a general licence that permits Chelsea FC to continue certain activities.

Abramovich with the Champions League trophy last summer. Image: PA Images

"We will fulfil our men’s and women’s team fixtures today against Norwich and West Ham, respectively, and intend to engage in discussions with the UK Government regarding the scope of the licence. 

"This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the Club to operate as normal as possible.

"We will also be seeking guidance from the UK Government on the impact of these measures on the Chelsea Foundation and its important work in our communities."

Abramovich has been seen at Stamford Bridge less over the past few years. Image: PA Images

Abramovich had been in the middle of attempting to sell the club, with a number of potential bidders linked with a move for the two times Champions League winners.

There had been interest from American Robert 'Woody' Johnson, the owner of NFL side New York Jets, and the current Blues' owner was said to have wanted to avoid owners from 'politically controversial' countries, such as China and Saudi Arabia.

Right now all his plans to sell will have to be put on hold, unless sanctions are lifted or he can get special dispensation proving he won't benefit from the sale.

The club will be desperate to get their licence amended, otherwise only those with season tickets will be able to go to games.