Striker legend Didier Drogba has criticized the new owners of Chelsea FC. In the eyes of the Ivorian, the investors around the American Todd Boehly have made too many changes.

"During the Abramovich era, this club had a certain class that I miss today," Drogba told French TV channel Canal. The ex-professional mainly criticized the handling of deserving employees.

"It's very difficult for me to understand how you could part with certain people, for example the physiotherapists, who have been there for a very long time," explained Drogba. He was also critical of the departure of long-time sports director Marina Granovskaia and recommended that the new management "return to the principles and values ​​they used to have".

A consortium led by US billionaire Todd Boehly has run Stamford Bridge since previous owner Roman Abramovich was forced to sell the club after Russia invaded Ukraine in the summer. With transfer spending of almost 300 million euros, the separation from Granovskaia and technical director Petr Cech and the sacking of coach Thomas Tuchel, Boehly caused quite a stir in the first few months of his tenure.

In terms of sport, the Blues have been able to get back on the road to success since the arrival of new coach Graham Potter. After a weak start to the season, the Blues are now fourth in the Premier League and, as leaders in Group E, are on course for the round of 16 in the Champions League.

This article was originally published on 90min.com as Didier Drogba slams new Chelsea owners: 'Principles and values' lost.