Khaldoon Al Mubarak Defends Manchester City Amid Financial Case
Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has issued a fresh defence of the club, insisting its position has not changed amid the financial case and the prospect of an appeal against any sanctions.
Case at a glance
| Item | Figure or date | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Financial allegations | 115 initially filed | Claims concern a nine-year period |
| Mancini’s City tenure | Four years | Period falls within the investigation timeframe |
| Al-Jazira consultancy claim | €2.03m | Alleged payment for four days’ work annually |
Al Mubarak said the club would not be distracted by outside judgement, arguing that City had overcome previous challenges and would do so again. He said there had been widespread “noise” around the case, but maintained that the club’s stance remained unchanged.
The chairman also said there were people seeking to halt City’s progress, adding that the club would not allow them to succeed. City continue to state that they are innocent and retain faith in the independent process.
The wider case covers alleged financial irregularities over nine years. It includes the four-year Manchester City spell of Italy coach Roberto Mancini, who has denied involvement in an alleged undisclosed payment arrangement.
Reports have alleged that Mancini had a second agreement with Abu Dhabi club Al-Jazira, under which he received a €2.03 million consultancy fee for four working days per year. Earlier claims suggested that sum came in addition to a €1.75m standard salary.
Speaking before Italy’s Nations League meeting with Turkey on Monday, Mancini rejected the suggestion that City had been proven guilty and distanced himself from the alleged dual-contract issue.
“I do not believe Manchester City have been found guilty — quite the reverse,” Mancini said. “It does not concern me and it is not new. City are not guilty. As for the second contract, that is their issue, if anyone’s, not mine.”
City are expected to challenge any formal ruling that goes against them. Possible penalties could include substantial fines or a points deduction, while Mancini now turns his attention to Italy’s fixture with Turkey.
