Potential legal actions against Manchester City are facing significant complications due to the diplomatic status of the club’s chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, according to a report by the Financial Times. The situation arises as the Premier League prepares to pursue serious charges against the club, with reports indicating that Manchester City faces conviction on more than 100 counts out of 130 allegations brought forward by the league.
Financial Allegations and Club Response
The Premier League has accused the club of concealing approximately £900 million through sponsorship deals described as “image rights.” While Manchester City intends to appeal these findings, no specific charges have been filed against Al Mubarak personally since Abu Dhabi acquired the club in 2008. Other Premier League clubs are also expected to initiate legal proceedings against Manchester City to recover losses incurred following the club’s financial dealings.
Diplomatic Status Creates Legal Hurdles
Al Mubarak, aged 51, has been listed on the register of diplomats accredited in the United Kingdom since 2020. This status grants him immunity from criminal investigations and typically protects him from civil proceedings within the UK. Legal experts suggest that this diplomatic immunity could complicate cases that might be raised against the club by authorities such as the Serious Fraud Office or police forces, given Al Mubarak’s central role in the organization.
Political and Executive Reactions
Despite the accusations, Al Mubarak has maintained a firm stance, stating in a public statement that some individuals have rushed to draw their own conclusions and noting that the club has overcome similar challenges in the past. Manchester City Chief Executive Ferran Soriano issued a strongly worded message to staff, criticizing the Premier League. He argued that the league’s document contains a negative view of the club’s interests and that the entire case rests on what the club considers a false accusation regarding the secret transfer of owners’ personal funds through sponsors in Abu Dhabi.
Andy Burnham, the British Prime Minister and former Mayor of Manchester, expressed concern about losing a partner like Al Mubarak due to his role at Manchester City. He stated that he cannot intervene further in the process and believes it would be wrong to rush judgment before studying all details carefully. Burnham emphasized that while the matter is ongoing, it is appropriate to remain silent while Manchester City contests the issue. He drew parallels to his defense of Everton in a previous matter, asserting they were not treated fairly. He thanked City Football Group and its owners for investing not only in the Etihad Stadium and its surrounding campus but also in the city at large.
