Manchester City owners announce exit from ownership in prominent portfolio club | OneFootball

The City Football Group (CFG) have this week confirmed that they have divested their shares in Mumbai City FC after six years associated with the club.

On 27 November 2019, the global reach of the CFG conglomerate extended further as they acquired a 65 per cent controlling stake in Indian Super League (ISL) club Mumbai City – becoming the multi-club group’s eighth side at the time.

Since Mumbai City’s induction into the multi-club infrastructure, the club have thrived by winning two ISL League Winners’ Shields and two ISL Cup titles – a landmark for the Indian side, who saw a marked improvement since the takeover.

Six years later, however, the City Football Group officially announced in the early hours of December 26 that following a financial re-evaluation of the investment, CFG would be divesting its majority stake in the club and relinquishing full control to the founding owners.

The statement from the City Football Group, as relayed officially by Mumbai City FC, read: “Mumbai City FC can confirm that City Football Group Limited (CFG) has divested its shareholding in the Club. The founding owners will assume full control of the organisation moving forward.

“Since 2019, CFG and Mumbai City FC have reached new heights – winning two ISL League Winners’ Shields and two ISL Cup titles, strengthening the Club’s football operations, and making meaningful contributions to the growth of the game in India.”

The statement continued, “CFG has made this decision following a comprehensive commercial review and in light of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future of the Indian Super League (ISL).

“This step reflects CFG’s disciplined and strategic approach—ensuring its focus remains on areas where it can have the greatest long-term impact.”

“CFG remains proud of the achievements and deeply appreciative of everyone connected to Mumbai City FC – from players and coaches to staff, fans, and partners – for their commitment and passion, and looks forward to continuing its relationships and partnerships in India in the years ahead.”

This statement marks the end of the City Football Group’s partnership with Mumbai City FC, which certainly brought success for the club in the Indian city. It remains to be seen, however, if there is another club either within Indian football or elsewhere lined up to take their place.