It’s evident that there is a disconnect between the ownership&the fans right now - especially online Not for everyone, but with the majority. To say there isnt would be a lie. Firstly, I think its important to work to understand how we got here (mainly to learn from it) but I’ll leave that for another day. In short, I think there is justifiable context on both sides. I dont believe the current situation was intentional, quite the opposite. But fundamentally, we are where we are. So with scepticism high, trust low&disconnect evident the question for me is how do we begin to fix it? Because there is nothing more powerful than having a unified fan base¬hing more debilitating when the opposite is present. For me, If Chelsea want to work to reconnect the fan base as fast as possible the right now there needs to be a focus primarily on doing rather than speaking. …with words following on once the relationship has positively shifted What does that look like? For me, this summer: -Lock down contract renewals of more key players (speaks volumes about intent to win to both the fan base&the media with all the mass exodus narratives flying around) -Sign more prem proven players this summer (JP style) on top of more elite young talent. Id do these things first. Were not going to sign 28 yr old elite players for huge fees/wages 300k, its unrealistic (arguably stupid too) …but I think there is a middle ground to be had. Once sorted I’d then work to build more bridges from a communication standpoint thereafter. I personally understand a lot of the logic in the success model but am also aware many dont&are seeking clarity. (The right messages&consistency will be key here though, the right medium also important imo) For me, the order of these things is vital though. Why? Well from a human behaviour standpoint, when trust is low humans tend to stop listening instead choosing to focus only on what the person does as they seek to find more evidence to validate their distrustful perspective Large sections of this fan base are currently at this point&the club need to understand this. Any words will likely fall on deaf ears. Whatsmore, even without distrust present, CFC fans culturally are very action oriented in their nature imo. Its very much a ‘winners win, losers explain’ culture. A kind of ‘fuck your feelings’ ruthlessness. (Whether or not this extreme mentality/culture is heathy for the club is a debate for another day. Fundamentally I dont agree with it but at the same time, it is what it is) The reality? Generally for the majority, everything is black&white. Context isnt tolerated much&Its often even seen as excuse making. With this in mind, speaking too much (especially right now) can (&will) actually make things worse imo so it’s very much an “actions speak louder than words” type of situation It’s the fasted root to beginning to fix the trust issues. No amount of words will do it, no matter how well they are articulated, well meaning&well thought out they are Words before actions right now will only lead to more distain, anger &disconnection imo In such a disconnected state, any words will likely be turned&weaponised against them Even the most well written comms will be taken through the washer with fans creating their own conclusions&conspiracy theories etc) I think there is an awareness in house that expectations are rising&in order to meet those expectations&take the next step, there needs to be an evolution in the recruitment approach (not a complete abandonment) but an evolution …I think they know this&i personally think we’ll see it Big summer&im looking forward to seeing what we do In summary Moving forward, if were to shift the trajectory of disconnection then a change in behaviour is vital-words& actions will be very important But at this stage reading the room is vital imo Actions HAVE to come before words right now. Then once there is a positive shift in relationship, words should follow
