Chelsea’s latest social media announcement has infuriated supporters days after their 1-0 defeat to Sunderland. The Blues were expected to beat the Premier League’s bottom club on Sunday but left the Stadium of Light empty-handed following a dismal performance.

Chelsea remain fifth heading into the international break but their recent performances have left them looking vulnerable. Fans are already frustrated with the result and the club’s latest announcement has given them another reason to vent their anger.

Chelsea fans slam club over pop-up store announcement

Chelsea announced on Monday that they will be opening a store in Covent Garden this week, presumably with Christmas shopping in mind. The statement read: “We interrupt your regular scrolling for some breaking news. Chelsea are coming to Covent Garden, opening a pop-up store this week. ​More to follow as this story develops.”

However, the timing of the announcement did not go down well with supporters. The post came just one day after the Blues’ 1-0 defeat to Sunderland, and hundreds of fans responded with criticism. The main issue was why the club was promoting a new shop when recent results have caused so much frustration.

Some supporters wanted Chelsea to address the controversial refereeing decisions from the weekend instead. One fan asked: “How about you pop up to PGMOL and defend this club publicly against the disgraceful officiating this weekend?” Another wrote: “You’re genuinely a disgrace. Still no word about the officiating from yesterday?”

Some also called for Chelsea to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window, particularly in defence and midfield. “You people cannot even read the room. How about getting some good CBs,” a fan commented. One added: “Have some shame. How about you open your wallets for a midfielder in January?”

A frustrated Blues supporter offered a broader criticism of the club’s current direction. They posted: “The fans don’t want a shop. The fans want to watch their team performing well and playing beautiful football. The fans want to see the players fighting hard for the club’s badge.”

Chelsea are fifth in the Premier League, which is hardly a disgrace, but Sunday’s defeat has left supporters questioning whether the team is progressing as expected. The pop-up store announcement may have been intended as positive news but its timing has clearly struck a nerve.