Roman Abramovich took many Chelsea fans by surprise on Saturday evening, when he released a personal statement via the club's official website to confirm that he is stepping down from his duties in charge of the club.
The Russian businessman communicated his decision just a few days after Russian president Vladimir Putin announced that Russia were launching a military operation against neighbouring country Ukraine.
"During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea, 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," read Abramovich's statement.
"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.
"I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the club, players, staff, and fans."
How does Abramovich's departure affect Chelsea?
Abramovich was not the one who was running Chelsea in the last few years, with director Marina Granovskaia being in charge of football operations.
Back in December, Granovskaia received the Best Club Director award in 2021 as part of the annual Golden Boy awards, organised by Italian newspaper Tuttosport.
Meanwhile, Abramovich still owns Chelsea, but Foundation Trustees John Devine, Emma Hayes, Piara Powar, Paul Ramos and Sir Hugh Robertson will run the club along with Granovskaia in the Russia businessman's absence.
The Carabao Cup final
Abramovich's statement was published one day before the Carabao Cup final between Chelsea and Liverpool. The two teams are set to face each other at Wembley on Sunday and coach Thomas Tuchel had already claimed in his press conference on Friday that the situation is not ideal at the club following Russia's invasion.
"The situation in general, for me and for my staff and for everybody here at Cobham, for the players, is horrible," he said.
"Nobody expected this. It's pretty unreal, it's clouding our minds, it's clouding excitement towards the [Carabao Cup] final and it brings huge uncertainty.
"To a certain degree I can understand the critical opinions towards the club, towards us who represent that club. I can understand that and we cannot fully free ourselves from it."