Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has expressed frustration over the constant reminders of the 115 Premier League charges against the club, despite their ongoing success.
The charges, which pertain to alleged breaches of regulations and financial rules between 2009 and 2023, have been strongly denied by the club. Khaldoon acknowledged that the continuous reference to these charges is frustrating, especially as Manchester City approaches their historic fourth consecutive Premier League title.
In his annual end-of-season address to the club’s internal media, Khaldoon stated:
“Of course, it’s frustrating. I think the reference is always frustrating. Having it talked about the way it’s being talked about; I can feel for our fan base and everyone associated with the club.”
Khaldoon emphasised the importance of respecting the ongoing process, despite it taking longer than anticipated, and called for “more sensibility” from football authorities in policing the game’s finances.
His remarks came before reports by The Times that Manchester City had issued a legal claim challenging the validity of the Premier League’s associated party transaction (APT) rules.
These rules, which relate to clubs signing sponsorship deals with companies linked to their owners, have been tightened by the Premier League.
The legal action alleges “discrimination” and could potentially lead to the end of the APT system, allowing clubs to strike commercial deals without independent oversight. The Premier League’s annual general meeting, set for Thursday, will see club chairmen discuss their positions on the sponsorship rules.
Additionally, Khaldoon addressed manager Pep Guardiola’s future at the club, expressing confidence in finding the “right solution.” Guardiola, whose contract runs until 2025, has hinted at the challenges of maintaining motivation after sustained success. Khaldoon reassured that decisions regarding Guardiola’s future will be made collaboratively, as has been the practice over the years.
Khaldoon concluded by noting the impact of recent financial regulations on transfer spending, anticipating a more balanced approach in the future due to the tightened regulations implemented over the past year.
