Abramovich was born in Saratov, Russia, into a Russian family, and lost his mother at the age of 18 months and his father, who was killed in a construction accident, at the age of four. He was raised by his paternal uncle in Komi and later by a second uncle in Moscow. He lived in numerous Russian orphanages and by all accounts his upbringing was strict and harsh.Abramovich attended the Industrial Institute in the city of Ukhta before being drafted into the Soviet Army. After military service, he studied briefly at the Moscow State Auto Transport Institute before dropping out to go into business. He later earned a correspondence degree from the Moscow State Law Academy.
Now the Roman Empire has come to Stamford Bridge, and his arrival has sparked the same contrasting reactions. MP and long-time Chelsea fan Tony Banks has questioned whether, with his big but Byzantine asset portfolio, Abramovich makes a "fit and proper" owner.
Club chairman Ken Bates, however, has welcomed his new benefactor. As well as wiping out Chelsea's debts and polishing Bates' personal coffers to the tune of £17 million, the Russian has promised a further £30million each on new players and training facilities.
He's already blown that meagre budget, in one day spending £24 âmillion to safeguard the assets of Damien Duff and Wayne Bridge. This money is petty cash for Abramovich but, for those on the club terraces, it holds the promise of championship, FA Cup and even European success.
His bottomless pocket in the transfer market means other teams get to enjoy the fruits of his largesse, and any victories for Chelsea will turn him overnight into a local hero. For players and fans alike of the beautiful game, it seems Roman Abramovich has everything to pay for.
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