In response to the mounting criticism, Roman Abramovich said last week that he would put Chelsea up for sale.

The Premier League has barred Roman Abramovich from serving as a director of Chelsea Football Club.

“Following the implementation of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League Board has disqualified Roman Abramovich as a Director of Chelsea Football Club,” the Premier League said in a statement.

“The Board’s decision has no bearing on the club’s ability to practise and play its fixtures, as set forth in the provisions of a Government licence that expires on May 31, 2022.”