Chelsea FC Breaking News: Ron Gourlay To Leave Club

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Chelsea FC have announced via their official club website that chief executive Ron Gourlay is to leave the west London club to “pursue new business challenges” after a decade at Stamford Bridge.

Gourlay has been CEO at the club since taking over from the often controversial Peter Kenyon in 2009 and overseen the most successful period on the pitch in the club’s 109 year history.

During his time at the club, Gourlay has been instrumental in guiding the club onwards and upwards, culminating in finally winning the Champions League in 2012 and the Europa League the following year.

Yet whilst Chelsea have progressed massively on the pitch, Gourlay has endured criticism for his (and the board’s) handling of a number of events, including John Terry’s charge of alleged racism and the appointment of former Liverpool manager Raphael Benitez.

"“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,” said Gourlay.“I would like to thank Mr [Roman] Abramovich, the directors, the manager and players and all the staff for their support during my time at the club, and wish them much continued success in the future.”"

It’s unknown when exactly Gourlay will step down and who is likely to take over, but for the interim period, existing club chairman Bruce Buck and director Marina Granovskaia, will be assuming the additional responsibilities until a replacement can be found.

Stay tuned for more Chelsea FC breaking news as it happens…