Strasbourg supporters have intensified protests against BlueCo’s ownership as UEFA warns that Chelsea faces European expulsion unless the consortium resolves its multi-club conflict of interest by March 1.
Strasbourg fans are demanding that BlueCo exit the club, claiming the French side has “lost its soul” under the consortium’s control.
Tensions reached a breaking point following the mid-season departure of manager Liam Rosenior to Chelsea and David Fofana’s deadline-day move to Alsace—the 12th player transaction between the clubs this season.
Ultras argue the current model reduces the historic club to a mere developmental “stepping stone” for London interests.
The crisis extends beyond the stands, as UEFA and FIFA have issued a stark warning regarding Champions League integrity.
With Strasbourg currently seventh and pushing for Europe, BlueCo must eliminate “decisive influence” over both entities by the March 1 deadline.
Failure to comply could see Chelsea demoted to the Europa League or barred entirely if Strasbourg finishes higher in their respective league, mirroring the precedent set by John Textor’s Crystal Palace.
Experts suggest a “blind trust” arrangement is now the only viable escape route to avoid a catastrophic European ban.
University of Liverpool’s Kieran Maguire warns that the current structure resembles a hedge fund strategy rather than a traditional football project, alienating both fanbases.
As the deadline looms, the Clearlake-Boehly consortium faces a race to restructure its empire or risk a season of total continental isolation.