Former Chelsea players contribute to Vitesse’s survival after Dutch club faces trouble following relegation.
Ex-Blues academy talents Lewis Baker and Matt Miazga have made financial contributions to Vitesse, with the club reported to be nearly £16 million in debt following a failed takeover. Vitesse’s strong relationship with Chelsea in the 2010s has resulted in various players, including Baker, Miazga, Mason Mount, Armando Broja, and Dominic Solanke, spending time at the club.
In total, 29 players joined Vitesse on loan from Chelsea over an 11-year period. American businessman Coley Parry’s bid to buy out the club’s current Russian owners was unsuccessful.
Despite a recent 3-2 victory over Fortuna Sittard, Vitesse has been deducted a record 18 points in the Eredivisie, leading to their relegation to the second tier for the first time in 35 years. RB Leipzig forward Lois Openda is also among the donors, and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard spent a year at Vitesse on a temporary basis from Real Madrid in 2018-19.
The club has a May 17 deadline to secure a playing license for 2024-25, which would allow them to continue competing in the professional leagues. There are concerns about the possibility of bankruptcy and the potential loss of their playing license.
Vitesse has called on supporters and businesses to help the club avoid financial collapse. Manager Van den Brom has urged everyone to participate and support the club, emphasizing the importance of Vitesse’s survival in the community.
