Manchester City between hopes and scandals: The Club World Cup is approaching!

Manchester City between hopes and scandals: The Club World Cup is approaching!

Manchester City, once one of the dominant forces in international football, is currently facing serious challenges. The United Arab Emirates' (UAE) financial and sporting influence in football is waning as Saudi Arabia and Qatar increasingly gain the upper hand. This is reported by the NZZ.

In this tense situation, Manchester City has endured a titleless season and is facing investigations for financial violations. This raises questions about the future of the club, which, funded by the UAE, sees the Club World Cup as a last resort to regain influence. The competition, in which the club is the sole representative of the UAE, could potentially bring about the desired turnaround.

Challenges and future investments

The UAE is investing heavily in the Club World Cup, but Saudi Arabia is currently funding the competition through significant investments in streaming service Dazn, which has acquired the TV rights. While Qatar is the current favorite with Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City's participation in this tournament could be crucial for the club.

The City Football Group, which has the most professional clubs in the world under its umbrella, is under pressure. Despite this large number of clubs, no other teams were able to qualify for the Club World Cup. Inter Miami will be added to the starting field as hosts, although New York City FC is also part of the City Group.

Sporting decisions and dissatisfaction

The unrest within the club is also reflected in recent sporting decisions. Manchester City chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak has expressed his dissatisfaction with the club's transfer activities. During this transfer period, the club spent 120 million francs on three new players. At the same time, star player Kevin De Bruyne, whose move to SSC Napoli is imminent for a free transfer, is being hit hard. The transfer of Jack Grealish from the squad is also a notable move.

Cits coach Pep Guardiola has hinted that he could leave the club if the squad is not reduced. This uncertainty about the team's future could impact both the performances on the pitch and the general mood within the club.

The rise of Manchester City

Manchester City's history since its takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG) under Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2008 has been one of dramatic change. Before this takeover the club was affected by relegations and promotions. After the takeover, Manchester City became the richest club in the world overnight and achieved enormous success. Under coach Roberto Mancini, the club won the FA Cup and the Premier League. Guardiola, in charge since 2016, led the club to new heights, but the club is currently facing its biggest challenge in years.

Manchester City does not allow itself to be discouraged by the current situation and hopes that by winning the Club World Cup title they will return to dominance in football.

These developments make it clear how the football landscape can change quickly and the role financial resources play in this.