3 Things Todd Boehly got right at Chelsea in 2022/23

New wage structure and contract strategy

The new owners have introduced a new wage structure in which contracts rely heavily on bonuses. Many new contracts have bonuses linked to Champions League qualification and performances. This means that the wages fluctuate depending on the club’s participation in European football and performances throughout the season. It is reported that the players with new contracts are set for a decrease of at least 30% of their wages. It is important to note that the previous regime focused on rewarding players for winning trophies. The wage structure was much more rigid, and the wage bill had been increasing continuously.

Moreover, Chelsea has been signing players on lengthy contracts and setting a new trend in the Premier League. Players like Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, and Mykhailo Mudryk have signed agreements that will see them remain at Stamford Bridge for at least seven years. The length of the deals indicates a shift in approach where the board is looking to tie down players to long contracts. This strategy will help the club balance their books and help with financial fair play as well. The board has taken a risk with this approach as a Drinkwater-like situation may arise, and players can look to run down their contracts. On the other hand, the contract length allows the board control over future sales and gives them a strong negotiating hand in any discussions.