City Football Group (CFG), the global football ownership network best known for its stake in Manchester City, has confirmed plans to divest its stake in Mumbai City FC, citing ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future structure and stability of India’s professional football leagues.
In a statement released on Friday, CFG said the decision to withdraw ownership was made after “careful strategic review” and consideration of the “evolving landscape” of football in India. The group, which first invested in Mumbai City in 2019, played a major role in elevating the club’s competitive performance, including an Indian Super League (ISL) title and League Winners Shield in 2021.
Sources close to the development indicated that while CFG remains optimistic about the potential of Indian football, concerns over regulatory and operational clarity within the league system influenced the exit. “The environment remains dynamic, and CFG must prioritize long-term stability for its global portfolio,” the statement said.
The move ends a six-year relationship that saw Mumbai City rise as one of the league’s premier clubs, both on and off the pitch. Discussions are reportedly underway to identify new investors for a smooth transition.
Industry analysts suggest the withdrawal could signal broader challenges for global investors navigating India’s developing sports governance frameworks. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has yet to issue a formal comment.
