Roman Abramovich, the former owner of Chelsea FC, is reportedly in advanced talks to purchase French Ligue 1 club Angers SCO for a hefty £600 million. The potential deal marks a dramatic shift for Abramovich, who has been out of English football since his sale of Chelsea in 2022 amid the geopolitical turmoil surrounding his ties to Russia.
Angers, a historic club based in the city of Angers, has had a rollercoaster journey in France’s top flight. Currently battling relegation, the club has struggled to maintain its presence in Ligue 1 and needs investment to solidify its future. Abramovich’s deep pockets and experience in managing a high-profile football club could provide the resources and direction necessary for Angers to rise out of its current slump.
Abramovich is well known for his transformative ownership of Chelsea, where he poured substantial funds into the club, leading to unprecedented success. Under his stewardship, Chelsea won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups, and, most notably, the UEFA Champions League twice. His strategy of high-profile signings and managerial appointments revolutionized the English football landscape.
If the deal goes through, it would not only mark Abramovich’s return to European football but also reflect his ongoing desire to invest in and elevate football clubs, especially those with untapped potential. Angers, with its rich history but struggling present, could be a perfect canvas for Abramovich’s ambitions.
The £600 million price tag signals a significant investment in Ligue 1 and may set a precedent for other wealthy investors looking to capitalize on the French market. While the deal is not finalized, the sports world is watching closely to see how this potential acquisition unfolds.
