11 March 2024 , 14:16
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Chelsea chief executive Chris Jurasek stunned staff in a recent meeting after he allegedly revealed he is not really a football fan and that he sees supporters as customers.
Jurasek was appointed as the club's CEO in May 2023, succeeding Tom Glick who stepped down to pursue other opportunities. The announcement came a day after Chelsea confirmed that Mauricio Pochettino will become their new head coach following their disappointing 12th-place finish last season.
Previously, Jurasek held the position of CEO at EagleView and had over 25 years of experience in leadership roles at several global companies, including Boehly's Clearlake Capital equity firm. Now, almost one year on from his appointment, Jurasek has allegedly surprised members of staff with a shock revelation.
According to the Daily Mail, in a recent staff meeting with new starters, Jurasek was asked if he supported Chelsea. He purportedly responded that he was 'not really a football fan' and added that he refers to the sport as 'a product and our fans as customers - which people get mad at'.
During Chelsea's 2-2 draw against Brentford earlier this month, Blues fans were chanting Roman Abravomich's name as discontent continues over the way the new owners have handed the club since taking over. The club have spent over £1billion on transfers during their two years at Stamford Bridge.
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But despite their influx of cash, performances and results have declined, with the Blues finishing down in 12th - their lowest league finish for almost 20 years - last season. It hasn't been much better under Pochettino this season as Chelsea languish in mid-table after winning 10 of their 26 top-flight matches.
As well as singing about Abramovich, Chelsea fans appeared to take aim at Pochettino as they sung "f*** off Mauricio" in the direction of the under-fire boss. There is no doubt the Argentine is under pressure to turn their fortunes around and he has bizarrely told his players to speak to Boehly if they want him sacked.
Mauricio Pochettino is under pressure at Chelsea (Getty Images)Should Chelsea sack Mauricio Pochettino? Let us know in the comments below!
Speaking ahead of their game against Newcastle on Monday night, Pochettino said: "Look, I respect Jose, he is my friend. He was amazing for this club, his medals here are amazing.
"We need to be pushing and believe in us and accept the things that come from the fans. If the players believe that with another coach they can do better... maybe they can talk with the owner or sporting director. You need to ask the players. You can ask. Do you see me worried about this?
"No. Is it a problem of attitude? No. It is a problem? No. You can see in the way that they behave that they are behind us. Of course, there is no doubt."
Mirror Football has contacted Chelsea Football Club for comment.
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