Chelsea Supporters' Trust releases letter from CEO after strong message to Todd Boehly

The Chelsea Supporters' Trust has published the club's chief executive Chris Jurasek's response to his forceful letter regarding fans' concerns.

Since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital completed their acquisition in the Blues In 2022, fans increasingly expressed their discontent with the new ownership.

Songs of 'Boehlyyou are a***' were heard in the 2-2 draw away in Brentford at the start of March, with limited on-field success despite nearly £1bn spent on new signings since his arrival.

There is a feeling of disconnection between fans and management, with the Chelsea Supporters' Trust writing a letter to Boehly and co-owner Behdad Eghbali.

The mood of the fans was addressed first, and the Trust believes there is a growing sense that the club is becoming a “laughing stock”, as well as the potential for “irreversible toxicity” unless an improvement is observed.

Increases in game day costs, such as jerseys, programs and food and beverages, were also raised, and potential increases in season ticket holders and general admission were considered “extremely reckless.”

The Trust also called for the “urgent requirement” to connect and engage with a broader fan base, and for fans to be able to see a “detailed strategy update” to help instil confidence.

Chief executive Jurasek responded to the letter, stating that working with fans helps make Chelsea the most successful club in the world.

He said there is “a lot of shared discussion” through the Fan Advisory Council, and the Fan Forum meetings highlight the “strong communication” between the club and fans.

Jurasek highlighted the “diverse representation” across Jewish and Muslim fan groups, and emphasized that club revenue must be increased so the men's and women's teams can compete on the field.

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Rising matchday costs were also addressed, with the club boss insisting there are “regular consultations” with the Supporters Advisory Council to take a “holistic” approach to the issue.

Jurasek concluded by saying that Chelsea “strives to have strong and regular communication” with its fans to improve connection.

Despite the response, Trust chairman Mark Meehan offered a response, saying: “It doesn't really address the issue we raised.”

Meehan said “a much broader form of communication” is needed to reassure fans amid their continued concerns about the direction of the club.

Chelsea Foundation chairman Danny Finkelstein is said to be “fully engaging with fans”, but there is a call for everyone at the club to do the same.

Meehan finished by emphasizing that Blues fans are followers and not customers, and that the Trust will continue its work to ensure their voices are heard.