Chelsea have announced a £145.6 million ($196.4m) after-tax loss for the year ending 30 June 2021.
This figure is in contrast to last year's £36.4m ($49m) profit, which reflects the huge financial impact of COVID-19.
In the club's strategic report, it states that "the loss of revenue [was] due behind closed doors for most of the 2020–21 matches, as well as decreased profit on player sales and increased player amortization."
Although more matches were televised, the club's total turnover increased from £387.8m ($523m) to £416.8m ($562), with matchday earnings falling from £46m ($62m) to just £7.2m ($9.7m). happened. Due to the absence of fans from Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea FC plc is backed by Fordstam Ltd., a company owned by Roman Abramovich, and the accounts state that "the company is dependent on Fordstam Ltd. for its continued support" and this will be the case for "the foreseeable future". .
The account claims a profit on player trade of £27.9m ($37.6m) - significantly down from £142.6m ($192.3m) a year ago - citing the departure of winger Viktor Moses at Spartak Moscow and midfielder Nathan's departure at Atlético Mineiro. In addition to receiving outstanding charges "in respect of several previous transfers".
Since the end of June, Chelsea have spent a further £109.7m ($147.9m) on loan from Romelu Lukaku, goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli and Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez, but reported income of £103.7m ($140m). 13 players.
The accounts also detail the aid Chelsea have provided to the local area since the start of the pandemic.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has been an incredibly difficult time for everyone," the strategic report continued.
“Communities around the world have faced extraordinary challenges and many families have lost loved ones. Both the club and the Chelsea Foundation have worked to alleviate some of the hardships faced by particularly vulnerable groups, including staff, fans and the wider community. and families who were affected by the pandemic."
Chelsea State has helped deliver more than 7,000 Pfizer COVID-19 jabs to local residents during a series of pop-up vaccination centers at Stamford Bridge.