Chelsea’s Transformation Under Abramovich: Revisiting The First 11 Signings That Shaped An Era

When Roman Abramovich took the reins at Chelsea in 2003, the football landscape altered dramatically. Eleven key signings marked the start of an era that saw the Blues transform into a footballing powerhouse.

As Chelsea spends over £1 billion under Todd Boehly’s consortium, let’s reminisce about Abramovich’s first transfer window that laid the groundwork for unparalleled success.

1. Glen Johnson: The first recruit under Abramovich, Johnson’s two seasons with Chelsea, notably under Mourinho, contributed to a double win. Despite later spells at other clubs, Johnson’s early days at Chelsea showcased his talent.
2. Claude Makelele: A monumental signing, Makelele’s midfield presence defined Chelsea’s success for five crucial years. His departure to PSG in 2008 left a void only recently filled after a coaching stint at Chelsea.
3. Wayne Bridge: The £7 million signing from Southampton became a Chelsea regular before competition led to his departure. Bridge later retired after spells with Manchester City and Reading.
4. Hernan Crespo: Though not at his Serie A heights, Crespo’s 25 goals in 73 games aided Chelsea’s 2006 league win before departing for Inter Milan.
5. Geremi: A versatile player instrumental in Mourinho’s team, Geremi played a significant role before moving to Newcastle, followed by stints in Turkey and Greece.
6. Damien Duff: Chelsea’s most expensive signing that summer at £17 million, Duff’s contributions under Ranieri and Mourinho were noteworthy before his moves to Newcastle, Fulham, and retirement.
7. Joe Cole: A bargain from West Ham, Cole’s seven-year tenure at Chelsea yielded six major trophies, solidifying his place in club history.
8. Adrian Mutu: Despite a promising start, Mutu’s career at Chelsea derailed due to off-field issues, leading to his departure and a fragmented journey across several clubs.
9. Juan Sebastian Veron: Signed from Manchester United, Veron’s stint at Chelsea was marred by injuries, prompting a return to Estudiantes after just one season.
10. Alexey Smertin: His £3.45 million move from Bordeaux saw limited opportunities at Chelsea before a shift to Dynamo Moscow after Mourinho’s arrival.
11. Neil Sullivan: Serving as backup, Sullivan made few appearances for Chelsea before moving to Leeds, rounding off his career at Doncaster Rovers.

These signings marked the beginning of an unprecedented era for Chelsea, transforming them from a trophy-starved club to a dominant force in football. As Abramovich’s tenure witnessed 19 major trophies, including Premier League titles and Champions League triumphs, these initial signings laid the foundation for the club’s illustrious journey.