Roman Abramovich has revealed his hope of a 'proper goodbye' to Chelsea fans during a rare interview.
The former Blues owner was sanctioned by the UK government in March 2022 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Abramovich delivered immense success at Chelsea from 2003 until 2022
3
Abramovich delivered immense success at Chelsea from 2003 until 2022Credit: Getty
Just days beforehand, Abramovich announced the 'incredibly difficult decision' to sell Chelsea after 19 years of stewardship.
A consortium led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital completed the £4.25billion purchase just two months later.
Abramovich oversaw 21 major trophy wins at Chelsea throughout his tenure and has now spoken publicly about the sale.
He was interviewed by journalist Nick Purewal in his book 'Sanctioned: The Inside Story of the Sale of Chelsea FC'.
READ MORE ON CHELSEA
"Perhaps one day there would be a situation where I could attend a match and say a proper goodbye, but nothing more than that," he said.
"I don't have any interest in any role in a football club, certainly not a professional role.
"There might be something where I could help with academies and youngsters, giving greater opportunities to people from difficult backgrounds, if there were an initiative that could make a difference.
"But as for ownership or a professional role at a club, I am done with that in this lifetime."
Abramovich allegedly has strong ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, although he has denied this.
In another extract from the book, the 58-year-old has chosen not to let accusations distract him.
Abramovich wishes for a proper goodbye to Chelsea fans
3
Abramovich wishes for a proper goodbye to Chelsea fansCredit: AFP
"There is an old Russian saying, 'The dogs bark but the caravan keeps moving,' and that fits here," he said.
"Whatever I do, people will always accuse me of some kind of agenda. In the end, I have done what I have done simply to try to help."
Abramovich bought Chelsea from Ken Bates in 2003 for £140m.
The Blues went on to win five Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues and five FA Cups under his ownership.
Three League Cups, two Community Shields, two Europa Leagues, a UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup would also follow.
Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel were just three of the 14 managers to have worked under Abramovich.
Boehly fronted the consortium that bought Chelsea
3
Boehly fronted the consortium that bought ChelseaCredit: AFP
The UK Government approved the Boehly and Clearlake takeover in May 2022.
Chelsea won the ownership's first trophy last month when they beat Real Betis 4-1 in the Europa Conference League final.