Manchester City’s Richest Owners in History
Manchester City Football Club, a powerhouse in English and European football, has experienced a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. Much of its success is attributed to its wealthy and ambitious owners, whose investments have reshaped the club. Let’s get into the profiles and net worth of the richest individuals and groups that have owned Manchester City.
Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan
The most iconic owner in Manchester City’s history is Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family. Acquiring the club in 2008 through the City Football Group, Sheikh Mansour’s investments transformed City into a footballing giant. With a personal net worth estimated at $30 billion in 2024, Sheikh Mansour has poured over $2 billion into the club, enabling record-breaking transfers, state-of-the-art facilities, and global dominance in football.
Under his ownership, City has won numerous Premier League titles, FA Cups, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy in 2023. His financial backing has also fueled the expansion of the City Football Group, owning multiple clubs worldwide.
Peter Kenyon and Thaksin Shinawatra
Before Sheikh Mansour, Manchester City was owned by Thaksin Shinawatra, the former Prime Minister of Thailand. Acquiring the club in 2007 for £81.6 million ($163 million today), Thaksin’s tenure was brief but pivotal, laying the foundation for the Sheikh Mansour era. Thaksin, whose net worth was approximately $1.8 billion during his ownership, invested heavily in players but faced legal and financial troubles, leading to the sale of the club.
The City Football Group Legacy
City Football Group, led by Sheikh Mansour, has brought unparalleled wealth to Manchester City. The group’s valuation exceeded $6 billion in 2024, with stakes owned by global investors, including Silver Lake Partners and China Media Capital.
Manchester City’s ownership history reflects the growing financial influence in modern football. From Thaksin Shinawatra’s transitional phase to Sheikh Mansour’s revolutionary impact, the club’s riches continue to fuel its legacy as a global footballing force.
