Chelsea Aim To Break Even By 2010 - 08/05/2005

Chelsea has been bankrolled by Abramovich to the tune of £500m since he took over in 2003, but the club aims to break even by 2010. Over the past two seasons, 300,000 more people have attended games and Stamford Bridge is increasingly being used to the full extent of its 42,500 capacity. Matchday revenues are close to £1.5m which is approaching the amount taken by Manchester United. Eventually, the stadium may have to be expanded. Overall revenues were up by 40 per cent last year, but controlling costs is an important part of the break even strategy. Players' wages represent about 76% of turnover and the goal is to bring this down to a more sustainable level of 55%. One can be sure, however, that no expense will be spared in signing an additional defender, midfielder and striker for next season.