Since a certain Abu Dhabi-based sports investment group took over Manchester City, loads of rumours, reports and quotes have been spinning around. The Eastlands club have been linked with big-money moves for world-class players such as Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United, Cesc Fabregas of Arsenal and David Villa of Valencia.
But in a move diammetrically opposite to their earlier stance, ADUG have confirmed that they will NOT be making any bids for these big names until and unless Mark Hughes says so. The club’s new chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has emphasised that while the owners still retain their ambition to transform Manchester City into the world’s biggest club, they wouldn’t rush into something manager Hughes wouldn’t approve of.
Mr. Al Mubarak said: “Nothing rash is going to happen, we are not going to do crazy stuff. We are genuine people and we want to develop this club in a sustainable manner. We want to hear from the fans and the community. We want to bring this club back to the community and to the fans. We are here as long-term investors and it makes sense for us to build a dynasty.
“With our backing, with the commitment we are going to make to the academy in the next 10 years, there is going to be a tremendous period for Manchester City and for us. And I think we are going to have a blast doing it!”
Long term plans, heh? Well, seems like these Abu Dhabi guys are sensible after all!