{
  "id": 12694751,
  "title": "Key sporting figure set to leave Chelsea after much fan criticism",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/key-sporting-figure-set-to-leave-chelsea-after-much-fan-criticism",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-07T19:25:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/key-sporting-figure-set-leave-192500218.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Chelsea's co-sporting director Laurence Stewart is set to depart the club, following a storm of fan criticism. Reports suggest the move is imminent after four years with the club. The decision comes amid an otherwise quiet week in football, marked by the Manchester City story, Leo Messi's retirement, and Cristiano Ronaldo's behaviour. However, at Chelsea, the news has sparked controversy. The Athletic reports that Stewart is well-regarded within football but has faced intense scrutiny from supporters over the club's recruitment strategy. Known as one of two sporting directors since early 2023, his departure won't significantly impact the team, as his role will be absorbed by fellow sporting director Paul Winstanley and others. The move seems to reflect the club's efforts to streamline their sports director team, with Xabi Alonso's influence on transfers now greater than previous managers'. Fans have been vocal about the perceived shortcomings in recruitment during Stewart's tenure, with Chelsea qualifying for the Champions League only once under his leadership. Meanwhile, other Chelsea players are set to return for a crucial Bournemouth match, with Romeo Lavia expected to start.",
  "summary": "Chelsea sporting director Laurence Stewart is set to leave the club, according to reports that came out today.If you enjoy Talk Chelsea coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred sourc...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Adom Online",
        "title": "Chelsea sporting director Laurence Stewart to leave club",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/chelsea-sporting-director-laurence-stewart-to-leave-club",
        "published": "2026-10-07T09:45:37.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}