A groundbreaking new podcast series, Football on Trial: The Manchester City Charges, has officially launched, delving into one of the most significant legal battles in football history. Produced by BBC Radio 5 Live, the series sheds light on the financial allegations surrounding Manchester City and their meteoric rise to dominance in the footballing world.
Hosted by Clive Myrie – A Journey Through City’s History and Legal Turmoil
Fronted by esteemed BBC journalist and lifelong City supporter Clive Myrie, the podcast takes listeners through the club’s transformation from struggling contenders to global footballing giants. Myrie navigates the intricacies of Manchester City’s ownership changes, key managerial eras, and the unfolding legal storm that threatens to shake the club’s foundation.
Exploring City’s Ownership Shift: From Shinawatra to Sheikh Mansour
Manchester City’s fortunes changed dramatically in 2008 when Sheikh Mansour acquired the club for £200 million from former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. This takeover marked the beginning of a financial revolution, enabling marquee signings such as Robinho and ushering in a new era of dominance under managers like Roberto Mancini and Pep Guardiola.
The Legal Charges: What’s at Stake?
The club faces 115 charges related to financial irregularities, with allegations emerging from leaked data initially reported by German publication Der Spiegel. The charges have sparked intense debate, with potential repercussions ranging from fines to severe sporting sanctions, including relegation.
Expert Insights & Special Guests
Myrie is joined by a host of footballing and legal experts, including:
- Nedum Onuoha – Former Manchester City player
- Christoph Winterbach – Data journalist from Der Spiegel
- Nick De Marco – Renowned sports lawyer
- Emily Brobyn – Sports broadcaster and producer
- Kevin Parker – General Secretary of Manchester City’s Official Supporters Club
What Listeners Can Expect
The initial four episodes provide:
- A comprehensive look at Manchester City’s rise from obscurity to elite status
- A breakdown of the charges and their legal implications
- Exclusive interviews with key figures in football, law, and journalism
- Real-time analysis of the unfolding situation, with additional episodes planned to cover the final verdict
Where to Listen
Football on Trial: The Manchester City Charges is now available on BBC Sounds as of Thursday, February 20. Football fans, legal analysts, and City supporters alike can tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this monumental case.
