Roman Abramovich rarely speaks in public, and so when the Chelsea owner released a statement on the club's website this past Saturday, it felt like a significant moment.
"During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, 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," it began. "I have always taken decisions with the club's best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values.