Watchdog holds 'absolute power' in England: Manchester City owners could face forced sale

Speaking on 'The Rest Is Football' podcast, Kogan insisted it was premature to discuss potential sanctions while City's appeal against the commission's initial verdict remains pending. However, he confirmed that the IFR retains the authority to mandate a divestment should it deem such action necessary.

"We have the power to require an owner to divest if we believe they are running the club in a manner that is not fit and proper," Kogan stated. Asked whether an owner could refuse an order to sell, Kogan replied: "No, no, no. We have absolute power on that."

The chair of the watchdog, established in 2025, has already pledged to step down if there is any political interference in any investigation the IFR might pursue against City, amid concerns the situation could escalate into a diplomatic issue between the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates.

An independent commission found City guilty of arranging disguised commercial agreements to artificially inflate revenue and mask costs exceeding £900 million. The panel also concluded that City failed to provide accurate financial figures and did not act in good faith or cooperate with the investigation. Manchester City deny all wrongdoing and have lodged an appeal against the ruling.