Roman Abramovich has defended his record for firing managers and reaffirmed his commitment to the club in a rare interview from the Chelsea owner.
Frank Lampard, Chelsea’s record goalscorer, in January became the 10th manager to be sacked by Abramovich during the Russian billionaire’s 18-year reign at Stamford Bridge.
Tuchel's start at Chelsea shows Abramovich was right to sack Lampard
Thomas Tuchel, the current head coach, is the 14th manager to work under Abramovich and has guided Chelsea back into the top four of the Premier League and into the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in seven years.
Asked about Chelsea’s revolving door policy, Abramovich said: “I think we are pragmatic in our choices. And we are comfortable making the right changes at the right time to ensure we can achieve our long-term ambitions. I hope it also says something about the clarity of the long-term ambition of the club. Those who join understand the objectives both on the pitch, as well as the wider positive role the club plays in the community.”
Chelsea have won five Premier League titles, the Champions League, two Europa Leagues, five FA Cups and the League Cup three times since Abramovich bought the club in 2003.
“I think the trophies speak for themselves and show what we as a club have been able to achieve over these years,” Abramovich told Forbes. “And it’s my goal for us to keep winning trophies going forward and build for the future.”
Abramovich has not been to a Chelsea game at Stamford Bridge for over two years and can no longer work in England after deciding not to renew his visa.
But he reiterated his commitment to the club, adding: “Chelsea has a very rich history, and I feel extremely fortunate to play a part in that. The club was here before me, and will be here after me, but my job is to ensure we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future. That’s why the success of our academy at Cobham [training ground] is so important to me.”