By Manchester City’s chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, has expressed his frustration over the ongoing references to the Premier League charges against the club, empathizing with the club’s supporters and affiliates. In a recent interview, he called for a more sensible approach to regulating football finances, highlighting the need for balance and the impact of new regulations on transfer spending. Khaldoon pointed out that the focus should be on the players’ mental and physical health rather than excessive regulatory scrutiny that hampers the growth of the sport.
The club is challenging the Premier League’s Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, which are intended to ensure fair market value in deals involving clubs and related entities. The challenge, which will be heard in arbitration, could have significant implications for Premier League governance and the freedom of clubs to conduct commercial deals.
Khaldoon also discussed the lengthy process of addressing the 115 charges of financial rule breaches, which has been a source of frustration as the club recently secured its fourth consecutive Premier League title. He emphasized the importance of respecting the legal process and basing judgments on facts.
In addition to the financial issues, Khaldoon spoke about the future of manager Pep Guardiola, who has hinted at the possibility of leaving after next season despite being under contract until 2025. Khaldoon remains confident that a suitable decision regarding Guardiola’s future will be made collaboratively.
Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City has been marked by significant success, including multiple Premier League titles and other major trophies, as well as influencing the style of English football. Khaldoon praised Guardiola’s contributions to the club and the sport, noting the difficulty of surpassing the records he has set.
