Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has criticised Roman Abramovich’s decision to hand Chelsea’s care and stewardship over to trustees of the club’s charitable foundation.
The Blues’ owner confirmed his decision in a short statement on Saturday evening amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia.
He wrote: "During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities. 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."
Whilst the statement was originally intended to clarify Abramovich's current position, confusion has reigned since.
The 55-year-old remains the majority owner but The Athletic have provided considerable doubt on his decision, with it being suggested that the appointed Trustees have not yet agreed or signed a deal that would see them taking control of the decision-making process.
It remains to be seen whether that changes over the coming days but Gary Neville has already hit out on Abramovich’s recent decision.
Taking to Twitter, the former Manchester United man wrote: "The Trustees didn’t sign up to be used as a shield!
"They wanted to assist Chelsea’s efforts in the community. Poor from Abramovich and whoever was advising him."
Despite Abramovich taking a step back, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel has suggested that from his perspective at the very least, little will change at Stamford Bridge.
Speaking after Chelsea’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Liverpool, the German said: "For the news yesterday [Saturday], I think that it will change absolutely nothing for me on a daily basis. This is how I understand it.
"I am in close contact with Marina and Petr Cech to run the first team of football at Chelsea Football Club and give my input and to take care about this.
"I give my very best that we are able to win football matches and this will not change. I think it will not change with the news from yesterday."
