Even Roman Abramovich is feeling the pinch of the global
credit crisis and moves are being made to cut costs a Stamford
Bridge, starting by charging Chelsea players to eat at their Cobham
training ground canteen.
Money's too tight to mention: Roman
Abramovich is looking to cut costs at Chelsea
Despite Abramovich’s huge personal wealth, Chelsea
recently laid off 15 members of the club’s international scouting
network and further cost cutting exercises are
planned.
A report in the Sunday Mirror claims that the club are
exploring ways of charging staff to use support services, starting
with the canteen.
A club spokesman confirmed: “Costs at the training ground are
part of an ongoing review. “We are aware that other clubs charge
staff and players, but no decision has been taken yet.”
It is believed that a cost review of all areas of the club has
been requested by chief executive Peter Kenyon.
Luiz Felipe Scolari has already been informed that funds to
strengthen a side that has been beset by injuries this season in
January will be limited unless he adds to the kitty by selling
fringe members of the squad.
Frank Arnesen, who implemented the cuts in the scouting
operation, said: “A structure is now in place, even though the
credit crunch has meant Roman Abramovich has hit the financial
brake and asked us to cut deep.
“We have cut down significantly on scouts and other
activities.”
