English football’s independent regulator would quit over Man City interference
The head of English football's independent regulator says he will resign if he encounters any political interference over the future of Manchester City.
David Kogan, the head of English football’s independent regulator, the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), announced he will resign if faced with any political interference over Manchester City's future. The regulator has the power to assess the suitability of club owners and executives. If the club's involvement in breaking Premier League financial rules is confirmed, the watchdog could even mandate a sale.
Kogan dismissed Prime Minister Andy Burnham's comments as the politician being "entitled to make his own observations" and emphasized the IFR's independence. Kogan stated he would resign if under political pressure. The IFR found Manchester City breached rules over a nine-year period between 2009 and 2018, with Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG) allegedly topping up commercial deals by £830m.
City has denied the allegations and is appealing. The IFR's chairman, Kogan, is scrutinized due to his past political ties, but he remains committed to the IFR's probity and independence. The regulator will hold a sanctions hearing to determine Manchester City's punishment, which could range from fines to ejection from the Premier League.
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