In 2003, Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich took over Chelsea and altered the club’s destiny. Once a team with occasional glory, the Blues quickly rose to dominate English and European football. Over 19 years, his massive financial investment transformed Chelsea into a modern powerhouse.
Before his era, supporters fondly recalled legends such as Peter Osgood, Charlie Cooke, Alan Hudson, and Ron “Chopper” Harris from the 1970s.
But it was Abramovich’s money that ushered in a star-studded squad, shifting Chelsea into the elite ranks of world football.
Mourinho and the Rise of the “Special One”
Abramovich inherited Claudio Ranieri, who led Chelsea close to domestic success and into a Champions League semi-final. But it was the arrival of Jose Mourinho in 2004, fresh from winning the Champions League with Porto, that changed everything.
Mourinho declared himself the “Special One” and ended Manchester United and Arsenal’s duopoly on English titles. Chelsea won the Premier League in 2005 and 2006, then added more domestic and European triumphs under managers like Carlo Ancelotti, Antonio Conte, and Roberto Di Matteo, who famously delivered the 2012 Champions League title.
Building a European Force
Under Abramovich, Chelsea won:
- 5 Premier League titles.
- 2 Champions League trophies (2012, 2021).
- 2 Europa League titles.5 FA Cups.
- 3 League Cups.
- UEFA Super Cup (2021).
- FIFA Club World Cup (2022)
The appointment of Thomas Tuchel in 2021 added even more silverware, including a second Champions League crown.
Uncertainty Amid Abramovich’s Exit
Despite Chelsea’s dominance, Abramovich’s ownership ended abruptly in 2022 amid global sanctions targeting Russian oligarchs. The announcement of his intention to sell shocked football, leaving speculation about the club’s future.
Potential buyers have included Turkish businessman Muhsin Bayrak, as well as US-Swiss consortium leaders Todd Boehly and Hansjörg Wyss. The Premier League’s Owners’ and Directors’ Test is now under review, with calls for stricter transparency to prevent unchecked financial influence in the game.
A Lasting Legacy
Abramovich departs after 19 major trophies and nearly two decades of reshaping Chelsea’s identity. Players, coaches, and fans alike acknowledge his passion for the club.
Manager Thomas Tuchel reflected: “He was, and is, a very passionate owner who cares about the team, the club and the performance personally. Whoever buys the club will be lucky to have it.”
As Chelsea enters a new era under different ownership, the challenge will be to match the success and ambition that defined Roman Arkadievich Abramovich’s reign.
