Chelsea co-owner Hints at Potential Split with Clearlake Over Stamford Bridge Plans

Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly has suggested that the club’s ownership structure could change depending on the outcome of discussions regarding the future of Stamford Bridge.

Boehly, who holds just under 37% of the club, shares ownership with Clearlake Capital, the investment firm led by Behdad Eghbali, which holds the majority stake. Reports suggest tensions between the two groups have grown since their joint takeover in May 2022, with speculation last year about a potential buyout by one side.

A key issue facing the ownership is whether Chelsea will remain at Stamford Bridge, their home for 120 years. The stadium’s 40,000-seat capacity is seen as inadequate for the club’s ambitions, but redevelopment options are limited due to local regulations.

One possibility is rebuilding on the current site, though constraints make expansion difficult. Another option could be relocating to Earl’s Court, but Chelsea do not own that site, and no formal bid has been made. The club did acquire the nearby Oswald Stoll housing complex last year, though sources indicate this does not necessarily signal an expansion plan.

Speaking to Bloomberg, Boehly highlighted the importance of a shared vision for the club’s future.

“We have to think long term about what we’re trying to accomplish. We have a big stadium development opportunity that we have to flesh out. That’s going to be where we’re either aligned or we ultimately decide to go different ways,” he said.

Despite uncertainty over the stadium plans, Chelsea have made progress on the pitch under head coach Enzo Maresca, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League and on track for a return to the UEFA Champions League.

Boehly downplayed the prospect of immediate change in ownership, suggesting the partnership remains functional.

“The status quo is something that’s just fine,” he said. “We’ve learned from each other and we’re going to be able to work it out any which way. If you look at the evolution of the team, we’ve been aligned on what we’re trying to do and what we’re trying to build.

“It’s a team that’s young, it’s a team that’s got long contracts. All these things were new. In order to do all these things we’ve done, it’s because we’re aligned. We’re executing on a plan that ultimately will have Chelsea where it belongs. We’re sitting in the top four of the table.”