Stepping down: Transfer chief Marina Granovskaia is leaving Chelsea after 12 years
(Picture: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)Chelsea have confirmed the departure of director Marina Granovskaia as part of a major shake-up at Stamford Bridge.
New owner Todd Boehly will take over the role until a new sporting director is appointed, but Chelsea say Granovskaia “will remain available” to the club for the remainder of the transfer window to help the transition.
The departure of Granovskaia is a significant loss to Chelsea and leaves a massive gap to be filled. She has effectively run the club for Roman Abramovich for almost a decade and has been dubbed the most powerful woman in football.
Boehly will take on transfer negotiations and manager Thomas Tuchel will have more power over recruitment, with Chelsea facing a tough summer and playing catch-up in the transfer market as they embark on the rebuild required to return them to the top of English football.
Chelsea have confirmed Boehly will take up the role of chairman after it was announced Bruce Buck will step down after 19 years.
The club has also confirmed the make-up of its new board, with Hansjorg Wyss, Jonathan Goldstein, Barbara Charone and Daniel Finkelstein named as board members, along with Behdad Eghbali, Jose E Feliciano and James Pade.
Boehly said: “As custodians of Chelsea FC, we now begin executing our long-term vision and plan for the club, creating an outstanding experience for its passionate, loyal fans and continuing to challenge for top honours in line with Chelsea FC’s decorated history.
“Working together, side by side, we are firmly committed to winning, both on and off the pitch. For us, that effort has begun.”
Boehly added: “We thank Marina for her many years of excellent service to the club and wish her all the best in her future ventures.”
