In a significant development for Indian football, the global City Football Group (CFG) has exited its investment in Mumbai City FC. The club's Indian parent company, Mumbai City Football India Pvt Ltd, has purchased CFG's entire shareholding, marking a full return of ownership to domestic hands.
The Deal and Its Background
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) was formally notified about the sale and purchase agreement this week. CFG, which owns 13 clubs worldwide including the famous Manchester City FC, had initially partnered with Mumbai City in November 2019. At that time, the group acquired a 65% majority stake, while Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor and businessman Bimal Parekh jointly held the remaining 35%.
A source revealed to the Times of India, "CFG’s 65% shares have been purchased by Mumbai City’s parent company." The AIFF's consent was sought as part of standard club licensing protocols, which mandate federation approval for such ownership changes.
Exit Amidst a Turbulent Phase for Indian Football
CFG's departure coincides with a period of uncertainty for the sport in the country. The commercial agreement between the AIFF and its partner, the Reliance-subsidiary Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), concluded earlier this month. The absence of a new commercial partner and an unsuccessful tender process have cast a shadow over the future of the Indian Super League (ISL), the nation's top-tier competition.
On the field, Mumbai City's recent season was disrupted. The club began its preparations late and participated hesitantly in the Super Cup, where they were eliminated in the semifinals by the eventual winners, FC Goa. The club has yet to issue an official statement regarding the ownership change.
A Legacy of Success Under CFG
During CFG's nearly five-year partnership, Mumbai City FC established itself as a powerhouse in the ISL. The club's achievements under the group's stewardship include:
- Winning the ISL League Winners Shield twice.
- Lifting the ISL Trophy twice.
All three head coaches during the CFG era—Sergio Lobera, Des Buckingham, and Petr Kratky—delivered success, securing silverware and implementing an attractive, attacking style of football.
The squad boasts a strong core of Indian internationals like captain Lallianzuala Chhangte, Akash Mishra, Brandon Fernandes, Valpuia, and Vikram Partap Singh. Their foreign contingent, featuring established names such as Tiri, Jorge Ortiz, Jorge Pereyra Diaz, and Jon Toral, has also been instrumental in the club's triumphs.
The full implications of this ownership shift for Mumbai City FC's future strategy, player recruitment, and overall direction will become clearer in the coming months as Indian football navigates its current structural challenges.
