It’s never a good look when the owner of a football club appears unaware of its history—especially when that history involves a club legend. Todd Boehly, Chelsea’s American co-owner, has come under intense criticism following a recent incident involving former Blues star and manager Ruud Gullit.

Gullit, speaking on The Stick to Football podcast, revealed an awkward and somewhat shocking encounter with Boehly. The Dutchman recalled how he introduced himself to the Chelsea co-owner, only to be met with blank confusion.

“He asked me what I did and when I played for Chelsea,” Gullit recounted, implying that Boehly had no clue who he was or what he had accomplished with the club.

For those who might need a reminder: Ruud Gullit spent three years at Stamford Bridge from 1995 to 1998, initially as a player and later as a player-manager. Under his guidance, Chelsea lifted the FA Cup in 1997—the club’s first major trophy in 26 years. He played a pivotal role in changing the culture at the club and laying the foundations for the success that followed.

Understandably, the incident has sparked outrage among fans and pundits alike, with Boehly’s perceived ignorance seen as a glaring sign of disconnect between Chelsea’s ownership and the club’s rich legacy.

TalkSPORT pundit Andy Goldstein did not hold back in his criticism:

“If you’re at a football club and Ruud Gullit walks in, you should know who it is.”

Goldstein’s words echo the sentiments of many Chelsea supporters who value the club’s history and expect the owner to do the same. His co-host, former Premier League striker Darren Bent, went further, suggesting that Boehly’s ignorance could have lasting repercussions:

“It may harm his relationship with fans. Owners should understand the club’s DNA and history to endear themselves to supporters.”

That connection to the past—its legends, triumphs, and defining moments—is what keeps a club’s identity alive. Bent also drew a comparison with Boehly’s predecessor, Roman Abramovich, who despite being a foreign owner, was seen as someone who deeply respected and understood Chelsea’s traditions.

“Roman Abramovich understood the importance of respecting the club’s history and fans,” Bent remarked.

And as Goldstein poignantly added:

“It’ll never be your club. It’s the fans’ club, and you just own the keys to the front door.”

That quote is particularly telling. Chelsea, like any football institution, is built on more than just revenue streams and transfer budgets. It’s built on community, on loyalty, and on the legends who helped shape its journey.

This latest episode only adds to the growing scrutiny around Boehly’s tenure. From fan frustration over recruitment decisions to now a perceived lack of respect for club icons, it’s clear that Boehly still has work to do to win over the Stamford Bridge faithful.