UK government could force Sheikh Mansour to sell Manchester City
Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour could face pressure to sell the club if the UK government imposes sanctions over the United Arab Emirates’ alleged involvement in the Sudanese civil war.
The non-profit human rights organisation FairSquare has urged ministers to consider penalising the UAE deputy prime minister.
Calls for government action stem from accusations that the Gulf state is providing support and arms to the Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group operating in Sudan.
This devastating two-year conflict in the African nation has reportedly claimed the lives of 150,000 people.
Government intervention and Chelsea parallels
A potential political intervention could lead to asset freezes and bans on transactions with British businesses, mirroring a recent high-profile Premier League ownership change.
In 2022, former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was forced to relinquish control of the West London club following sanctions linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
FairSquare argue that targeting the City owner directly would provide ministers with a significant point of leverage to help cease the ongoing violence.
“If the UK government is serious about disrupting this horrendous conflict, then Sheikh Mansour provides a very obvious point of leverage.”
The UAE has consistently and vehemently denied any connection or support for either side involved in the Sudanese civil war.
Uncertain times for the Premier League champions
Any enforced sale would add severe off-pitch turmoil to a club already facing intense scrutiny from domestic football authorities.
The reigning English champions are currently fighting an ongoing legal battle against the Premier League over 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations.
Since a transformative takeover in 2008, the blue half of Manchester has enjoyed unprecedented success, securing eight league titles and a maiden Champions League crown under manager Pep Guardiola.
However, a forced change in ownership before an independent commission reaches a verdict on those financial charges could derail their era of sustained domestic dominance.