Pressure on new Blues owner to deliver as Cech adds to exodus
PETR CECH has become the latest high-profile figure to leave Chelsea following Todd Boehly’s £4.25billion takeover.
The former Blues goalkeeper — who has been their technical and performance adviser since 2019 — follows sporting director Marina Granovskaia and chairman Bruce Buck out of the door.
It is understood Cech held talks with the American owners about potentially staying at Chelsea, but made the decision to leave.
Cech said: ‘It has been a huge privilege to perform this role at Chelsea for the past three years. With the club under new ownership, I feel now is the right time for me to step aside. I am pleased that the club is now in an excellent position with the new owners, and I am confident of future success On and off the pitch.’
Co-owner Boehly added: ‘Petr is an important member of the Chelsea family. We understand his decision to step away and thank him for his contributions as an adviser and his commitment to the club and our community.’
Cech’s departure adds a further strain on Chelsea’s summer recruitment plans. Granovskaia, in particular, played a crucial role in the club’s transfer dealings and was significantly supported by the 40-year-old.
The exodus adds to the pressure on Boehly, who has appointed himself acting sporting director, to get deals over the line.
The American tycoon has taken a hands-on approach to his role as interim transfer negotiator so far but there remains some doubt over whether he has the required footballing expertise to lead Chelsea during an important window. Boehly is said to be relishing his role, but the club have started the search for a new technical director. Sportsmail reported last week that former Liverpool sporting director Michael Edwards — also admired by Manchester united — is one contenders. Raheem Sterling, Ousmane Dembele, Matthijs de Ligt and Jules Kounde are among the players Chelsea are interested in this summer.