Chelsea’s champions league clash with Lille in doubts as Abramovich suffers new sanction

Chelsea’s champions league clash with Lille in doubts as Abramovich suffers new sanction

Chelsea’s scheduled Champions League clash with Lille on Wednesday has been plunged into serious doubt after the European Union decided to sanction Roman Abramovich on Tuesday.

According to reports, Roman Abramovich is set to be hit with fresh EU sanctions and 14 other individuals over their link with Vladimir Putin.

The L’Equipe reports that the new restrictions have the potential to threaten the status of Wednesday’s second-leg knockout stage match between Chelsea and Lille in the Champions League.

Chelsea will carry a two-goal advantage into the tie after beating Lille 2-0 at Stamford Bridge, courtesy of goals from Kai Havertz and Christian Pulisic.

Abramovich, who has owned the Blues since 2003, was previously hit with a number of UK government sanctions in the wake of Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

This sanction has left Chelsea in a difficult position with the London club unable to sell match-day tickets, merchandise or renegotiate contracts.

Supporters are not be allowed to attend games unless they are season ticket holders until further notice.

The European champions will also be forced to spend no more than £20,000 on travel to away matches as part of their licence to continue operating as a club.