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‘It is state backed domination of a sport’ – Dan McDonnell

The all-consuming Manchester City machine marches on. After the Mancunian's decimation of fellow...
Jack Keegan
Jack Keegan

15.32 29 Apr 2023


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‘It is state backed domination...

‘It is state backed domination of a sport’ – Dan McDonnell

Jack Keegan
Jack Keegan

15.32 29 Apr 2023


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The all-consuming Manchester City machine marches on.

After the Mancunian's decimation of fellow title contenders, Arsenal, this week, eyebrows were raised whether fans, journalists, pundits and the broader public should be lauding City for their domination of the Premier League.

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The ownership model of Manchester City has come under fire in recent years as it is baked by the nation of Saudi Arabia and it also operates as a multi-club organisation and many feel this taints their legacy

Speaking to Johnny Ward on Football Saturday, journalist Dan McDonnell shared his stance on the Manchester City project.

‘It is state-backed domination of a sport,’ said McDonnell. ‘The whole Manchester City project. This has always been the case, though.’

‘Maybe the fact they're on the verge of a treble makes it even more pronounced that they might achieve this historic thing but it is basically be careful what you wish for.’

‘I made this point around the time of the Premier League investigation, Manchester City at various times, some of the other clubs that have been dominated by them have sort of run with them at times in Super League debates, looking for an increased shared overseas rights like Man City were accepted to the top table.

‘They've been a useful ally at times, but they just have a bottomless reserve and if they're struggling, they can find a new sponsor of an independent company in the UAE and they'll take off again. I still like watching them play football.’

‘That's the hypocrisy that probably exists within us all. I've always found them a good side to watch.’

‘What do people want to happen? Is it the Saudi-funded Newcastle? Would that be the rivalry that the modern Premier League deserves? And then maybe a Qatari-owned Manchester United?’

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