Will political intervention spare Manchester City? Regulator chief vows to step down if pressured

The club was found guilty of widespread breaches of Premier League financial rules. The independent football regulator holds the power to force the UAE-based owners to sell the club and can revoke their operating licence if they are deemed unfit. Kogan stated that the watchdog is still awaiting the outcome of City's appeal against the ruling.

The UAE is a major investor in the United Kingdom. Asked whether the regulator could remain independent given the broader geopolitical ties between the two governments, Kogan replied:

"Any form of political interference in our operations would lead to my resignation from this role, and I stand firmly by that. We have faced absolutely no political pressure on this or any other matter, nor do I anticipate any in the future," he said, as reported by AP.