Roman Abramovich slammed by Alan Shearer as Russian fails to criticise Ukraine invasion AGAIN in Chelsea sale statement
ALAN SHEARER revealed his frustration as Roman Abramovich failed to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine while announcing he will sell Chelsea.
The billionaire revealed he is looking for a buyer following 19 trophy-laden years at Stamford Bridge.
Abramovich will write off the £1.5billion debt Chelsea owe him.
And with the oligarch hoping to secure a record £3bn sale as soon as Friday, Abramovich is also donating all net proceeds to a charity for victims of the war in Ukraine.
However, he noticeably failed to condemn the actual Russian invasion orchestrated by Vladimir Putin.
Abramovich has denied he has close links to the despot.
But he was criticised on Saturday for failing to condemn Russia’s war when handing over ‘stewardship and care’ of Chelsea to six trustees.
And now Newcastle legend Shearer has come out criticising Abramovich for once again overlooking the issue.
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Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s FA Cup clash against Luton Town, Shearer told the BBC: “It’s a huge moment for Chelsea Football Club.
“Abramovich has brought massive success over his 20 years but it is not simple selling a football club, it can take months of years.
“But more importantly there is still no condemnation from Roman or the club about what is happening in Ukraine.”
Shearer’s comments came after Abramovich released a statement confirming his intent to sell Chelsea.
I have therefore taken the decision to sell the club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the club
Roman Abramovich
He said: “I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC.
“As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart.
“In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the Club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the Club, the fans, the employees, as well as the Club’s sponsors and partners.
“The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and Club.
“Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated. The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine.
“This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
“Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the Club.
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person.
“It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements.
“Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart. Thank you, Roman.”
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