Manchester City’s chairman, Khaldoon al-Mubarak, has voiced concerns that new regulations introduced over the past year will make the Premier League less competitive. In an official club interview, Mubarak called for more balanced financial regulations, emphasizing the league’s success due to its high level of competition.
The comments come as City prepares for a legal challenge against the Premier League regarding associated party transaction (APT) rules, which control how clubs handle sponsorship and revenue deals with related parties. Tougher APT rules were approved in February, and an independent tribunal is set to hear the case next week.
Mubarak also criticized new restrictions on player loans and swaps, which impact the City Football Group’s (CFG) ability to maneuver players between its 12 clubs. He believes these changes will significantly affect team operations this summer.
Separately, City faces 115 charges of alleged financial fair play violations, with a hearing scheduled for November. While the club denies any wrongdoing, Mubarak expressed frustration over the constant reference to these charges amid City’s successes.
Regarding Pep Guardiola’s future as City manager, Mubarak remains hopeful that Guardiola will renew his contract, which expires next summer. He praised Guardiola’s commitment and expressed confidence in finding a mutually beneficial solution.
