Manchester City verdict tests Abu Dhabi ties and leaves Andy Burnham on the spot

According to NY Times, the Premier League’s verdict that Manchester City cheated financial rules for almost a decade has intensified scrutiny of the club’s Abu Dhabi-backed era and created a political test for UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

City maintain they are not state-owned, with Sheikh Mansour the majority shareholder via privately owned Newton Investment and Development in Abu Dhabi.

The links are nonetheless extensive, from Etihad’s naming rights across shirt, stadium and academy, to chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak’s senior roles at state-linked entities, alongside sponsors such as Etisalat, Experience Abu Dhabi and Aldar.

Burnham initially voiced concern about losing the owners and praised their investment in Manchester, before his office clarified that nobody is above the rules and that, wherever wrongdoing is established, appropriate consequences should follow.

City deny wrongdoing and have appealed. The UK’s relationship with the UAE is deep across trade and security, while Al Mubarak was granted UK diplomatic immunity six years ago, a status that may complicate potential legal action.

Analysis has suggested offshore payments linked to Roberto Mancini may have led to about £12million in unpaid UK tax, with potential Companies Act issues. Etihad has threatened legal action against the Premier League after a commission described some sponsorships as sham arrangements.

Some fans fear politics could still influence sanctions. Previous disclosures showed government interest during the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle, though the Premier League said no pressure was applied. With each next step, questions grow over Abu Dhabi’s response and the pressure on Burnham.

Source: NY Times

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