Man City and Newcastle owners ban: ‘Whitehall insiders share update’
Man City’s and Newcastle’s state-backed owners being forced to sell their clubs is not considered likely according to “Whitehall insiders”, The Times reports.
A proposed change to the Football Governance Bill, which is currently in the committee stage in the House of Lords, could have significant implications for state-owned clubs in English football.
Proposed by Labour peer Lord Bassam of Brighton, the amendment seeks to ban clubs that are controlled or influenced by foreign states from operating in the Premier League. If accepted, this would force Man City and Newcastle United’s owners to sell their clubs.
The amendment specifies that no “state-controlled club” could be granted an operating license unless it proves it has severed its ties with state influence. This would apply directly to Man City, owned by Sheikh Mansour of the UAE, and Newcastle, owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The proposal defines state-controlled clubs as those with owners or entities deemed under the influence of any state actor, including heads of state, diplomats, or sovereign wealth funds.
However, the likelihood of this amendment becoming part of the final bill is considered small. Political insiders suggest it is not likely to get the necessary support from the House of Commons or the government, making the proposal’s future uncertain.
Man City and Newcastle United transformed by state ownership
Football Insider opinion
The impact of state ownership at the Citizens and Newcastle has been transformative, reshaping both clubs into major forces in English football.
The Sky Blues, under Sheikh Mansour’s ownership, has won six Premier League titles between 2017-2024, cementing their place as a domestic powerhouse. Their sustained success is built on investment in world-class players, top-tier facilities, and a tactical revolution led by Pep Guardiola.
Meanwhile, the Magpies, revitalised by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, secured a Champions League qualification in the 2022-2023 season, ending a long absence from Europe’s top competition. They also reached the Carabao Cup final in 2023, facing Man United.
Both clubs now operate at the highest level, with substantial financial backing and ambitions to continue their rise. While this state investment has sparked debate, it undeniably has propelled both clubs to new heights in the Premier League and beyond.
In other news, Man City have plot a sensational move to re-sign Liam Delap.
For more Man City and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.