The future of European champions Chelsea has been plunged into doubt after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was hit with UK government sanctions in response to the invasion of Ukraine. Abramovich has bankrolled the most successful era in the Blues' history since taking charge in 2003 -- the club have won five Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues among 19 major trophies. The billionaire -- described by the UK government as part of Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle -- had already signalled his intent to sell Chelsea due to the looming threat of sanctions. UK Culture Secretary Nadine Dorris said the priority was to "hold those who have enabled the Putin regime to account".
"Today's sanctions obviously have a direct impact on Chelsea and its fans," she tweeted. "We have been working hard to ensure the club & the national game are not unnecessarily harmed by these important sanctions."
Chelsea, who are in Premier League action against Norwich later on Thursday, have been given a special licence to continue to operate.
But even that licence imposes some tough restrictions on a club still in the running for the Champions League and FA Cup this season and sitting third in the Premier League.
AFP Sport looks at what Abramovich's sanctions mean for the club:
Sale on hold
The freezing of Abramovich's assets means any sale of the club appears on hold for now.
"Chelsea Football Club is now also subject to an asset freeze under UK financial sanctions," said the government's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation.
A number of interested bidders have signalled their interest, although many believed Abramovich's reported £3 billion ($4 billion) asking price was unrealistic.
In a statement, the Chelsea
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