In a surprising turn of events that has captured the attention of football fans and analysts alike, former Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich is reportedly set to buy Bulgarian football club Botev Vratsa for an estimated £100 million. The move marks Abramovich’s return to the football scene after stepping away from Chelsea in 2022 amidst political and financial pressures. If finalized, this deal would make Botev Vratsa one of the most well-funded clubs in Eastern Europe, signaling a potential shift in regional football dynamics.
Botev Vratsa, a modest team based in northwestern Bulgaria, has spent much of its history outside the football spotlight. Founded in 1921, the club has fluctuated between Bulgaria’s top and lower divisions, with limited resources and infrastructure. Despite having a dedicated local fan base, Botev Vratsa has struggled to make a significant impact on either domestic or European football. Abramovich’s interest in the club could change all of that. With deep pockets and a history of transforming clubs into competitive powerhouses, his involvement may be the injection of ambition and resources that Botev Vratsa has long needed.
Sources close to the deal suggest Abramovich sees the acquisition as a long-term investment and a passion project rather than a commercial venture. Since his departure from English football, Abramovich has kept a relatively low profile but has reportedly remained interested in football development, especially in lesser-known markets. Bulgaria’s top-tier league, the First Professional Football League, offers a chance to build a team from the ground up in a league that could benefit from increased visibility and investment. Abramovich is rumored to already be planning upgrades to Botev Vratsa’s stadium and training facilities, as well as scouting for emerging talent across Eastern Europe.
Reactions to the potential purchase have been mixed. Supporters of Botev Vratsa have expressed optimism, hoping that Abramovich’s wealth and experience can elevate the club’s status and attract better players, coaches, and sponsorships. Meanwhile, some critics question the sustainability of such a large investment in a small-market team, especially in a league that lacks the international appeal of the Premier League or La Liga. Bulgarian football authorities, however, have reportedly welcomed the move, viewing it as an opportunity to attract more foreign investment into the country’s football infrastructure.
Should the deal go through, it would represent one of the most high-profile ownership changes in Eastern European football history. Abramovich’s return to club ownership is likely to send ripples across the region, potentially encouraging other wealthy investors to consider similar ventures. For Botev Vratsa, it could be the start of a new era—one defined not just by survival, but by genuine competitiveness and ambition on the national and European stages. Only time will tell whether this bold move will pay off, but one thing is certain: Botev Vratsa is now firmly on the global football map.
