“Manchester City Dominate Premier League: Most-Watched Team, Biggest Brand, and Record-Breaking Finances”
Manchester City have extended their dominance over Manchester United and Liverpool as the Premier League’s most-watched team and the most valuable brand, according to their 2023/24 Annual Report.
The report highlights a record-breaking £715m revenue, a modest £2.2m increase from the previous year, alongside an impressive £139m profit from player sales. This takes their five-year total in player profits to over £400m.
Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak attributed the success to meticulous long-term planning, praising owner Sheikh Mansour for his vision since acquiring the club in 2008. Al Mubarak stated:
“Our constant ambition to target and achieve the unprecedented is a mark of the organisation we have become… This organisational approach is now part of our DNA.”
CEO Ferran Soriano added that City’s total brand valuation has climbed to £1.4 billion, a 7% increase from the previous year, cementing their lead over Manchester United and Liverpool (both valued at £1.1 billion). Soriano remarked:
“Winning the Treble last season did not generate complacency… We understand the relentless pursuit of beautiful football and operational excellence requires hard work and resilience.”
On-Field and Off-Field Success
City also declared themselves the most-watched Premier League team, attracting 694m viewers, while their digital reach has grown to 184m social media followers and 1.5 billion engagements. This reflects the effectiveness of their off-field strategy alongside achievements on the pitch, including victories in the Premier League, Club World Cup, FA Youth Cup, and success with their Women’s team.
The transfer market played a significant role in City’s financial gains, with sales including Julian Alvarez (£64m), Joao Cancelo (£21m), and Sergio Gomez (£8.4m). Academy talent also contributed over £50m, with a £25m deal for Yan Couto confirmed for next season.
Matchday revenue increased by £3.7m, reaching £75.6m, despite five fewer home games compared to the previous year. However, broadcasting revenue dipped by £4.7m to £294.7m, following an earlier Champions League exit. Commercial revenue, on the other hand, rose to £344.7m.
Financial Breach Investigation Looms
The report briefly mentions the ongoing Premier League investigation into alleged financial breaches. An independent panel has reportedly concluded its hearing, with a verdict expected in the new year. The report reiterates the club’s confidence, noting:
“The club welcomes the review… to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence in support of its position.”
The Bigger Picture
City’s dominance continues both on and off the pitch, fueled by strategic planning, financial acumen, and record-breaking achievements. With an eye on maintaining their success, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Ferran Soriano, and the entire City hierarchy remain committed to setting new benchmarks in the footballing world.
