Ron Gourlay’s decision to step down as Chelsea chief executive sees a major reshuffle in the Chelsea boardroom.
Roman Abramovich’s former PA, Marina Granovskaia is set to become his replacement making her certainly the most powerful woman in football.
The Russian businesswoman, who moved to England shortly before Mr Abramovich’s Chelsea takeover, has worked her way up Abramovich’s pecking order of loyal lieutenants.
She is credited with being a big factor in Jose Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge, and recruting summer signing Diego Costa from Atletico Madrid.
In Gourlay’s five years as chief executive, he saw the club win the Premier League, the FA Cup twice, the Europa League and of course Chelsea’s elusive, first Champions League title.
Chelsea had this to say on Gourlay’s departure. “The club, and in particular the owner and directors, wish to thank Ron for his many services to Chelsea and support his desire to seek new challenges. Ron’s efforts have helped the club to achieve its position as one of the leading football clubs in the world.”
“Ron said: ‘It has been a privilege to have played a role in the club’s considerable achievements both on and off the pitch over the last 10 years, but I feel the time is right to move on to other challenges.”
With no chief executive appointed as yet, Chelsea say Granovskaia and chairman Bruce Buck will share additional duties, until a replacement is formally announced.
By Joseph Richardson
