Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images
Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images
Todd Boehly was only at Chelsea for a few years, but he will easily go down as one of the most controversial owners in Premier League history.
Following Chelsea’s takeover in 2022, which he was a part of, Boehly has now sold his stake to Clearlake Capital. Clearlake will continue to back Xabi Alonso and are now in full control of the club.
One thing that Boehly did that was really controversial was suggesting that the Premier League should have an all-star game. Being such an American concept, unsurprisingly, that did not go down well in England.
“People are talking about more money for the pyramid, in the MLB All-Star game this year we made 200m dollars from a Monday and a Tuesday,” Boehly said shortly after taking over Chelsea in 2022 (via Sky Sports). “So we’re thinking we could do a North versus South All-Star game for the Premier League, for whatever the pyramid needed quite easily.”
A graphic reading 'CONFIRMED: Todd Boehly sells his Chelsea stake to Clearlake Capital'. Image shows Todd Boehly at Stamford Bridge.
Credit: Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images
Finding room for it in a very hectic schedule would be difficult, but is it the worst idea Boehly could have come up with? Absolutely not. As the now former Chelsea owner mentioned, it could have generated more money for the football pyramid in England, but as well as that, it would have just been a great spectacle to watch.
A team from the North boasting the likes of Erling Haaland, Bruno Fernandes and Virgil van Dijk taking on a team from the South featuring players such as Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka would have been entertaining to watch.
Right now, a Premier League South All-Star team would probably just consist of Chelsea and Arsenal players. But that is not necessarily a bad thing. They would undoubtedly put on a show!
It is not going to happen, though. Boehly had no support and the idea gained very little traction. He has now left Chelsea, who do have more important things to concern themselves with.
For example, Chelsea need to sign a midfielder in the January transfer window after failing to replace Enzo Fernandez. Fabian Ruiz’s profile looks perfect for Chelsea as they continue to struggle to control games this season.