Chelsea are expected to receive the verdict of a Football Association investigation into 74 alleged breaches connected to the club’s past operations under former owner Roman Abramovich. The case centres on issues involving agents, intermediaries and third-party investments.
The irregularities were uncovered during the 2022 takeover by BlueCo, led by Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali. Following a detailed review of the club’s records, the new ownership voluntarily reported the findings to the FA.
Investigators are examining claims of undisclosed payments to agents and the use of unlicensed intermediaries in transfer dealings. Reports indicate that the disciplinary hearing is due to wrap up this week, with Chelsea awaiting the FA’s final decision.
Should the club be found in breach of regulations, penalties could include a points deduction. However, sources suggest Chelsea would challenge any sporting punishment and believe a monetary fine is the most likely sanction. Abramovich and former director Marina Granovskaia are not subject to the proceedings as they are no longer involved in football administration.
Chelsea previously confirmed full cooperation with the investigation, explaining that possible shortcomings in historic financial reporting were identified during the takeover process and immediately disclosed to football authorities after the purchase was completed.
The club said it opened its files and historical records to regulators and pledged continued cooperation to bring the long-running investigation to a close.
Since the change in ownership, Chelsea have undergone sweeping transformation both on and off the pitch. The club has moved away from its reputation for rapid managerial changes and headline-grabbing signings, instead adopting a long-term squad-building strategy focused on sustainability.
While the approach has drawn mixed reactions, results on the pitch suggest steady progress. Under head coach Enzo Maresca, Chelsea are currently fourth in the Premier League, have secured qualification for the Champions League and captured the Europa Conference League title.
The west London side also briefly featured in the Premier League title race earlier this season. Financially, the new transfer model is beginning to align with sustainability rules. Chelsea spent £296.5 million in the summer window but recouped £314.4 million through player sales, ending the period with a net gain.
With the upcoming introduction of the Squad Cost Ratio framework, attention will turn to how Chelsea adjust further. Regardless of the FA’s ruling, the club’s operating model now marks a clear departure from the Abramovich era.
