MANCHESTER, UK – In a surprise move that asserts their commitment to perform their duties despite a politically hostile atmosphere, the 12-member Assets Examination Committee has declared that Manchester City Football Club was acquired by deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra with, “illegally acquired funds” and has seized it as a state asset. According to the unanimous ruling of the committee, ManCity’s ownership will immediately revert to the control of the 12 members, who will oversee the club’s management and finances.
“The evidence of malfeasance was overwhelming,” said Klanarong Chanthrik, the AEC chairperson. “The funds used to buy the club were from the unlawful tax-free sale of Shin shares.” Klanarong is expected to appoint himself as the temporary manager of the Premier League side, replacing the recently fired Sven Goran Eriksson. The other 11 members are due to move to Manchester in the next two months to begin setting up the new administration.
Reaction from fans was mixed, but generally positive, with wide speculation that the AEC would either offer the popular Eriksson a renewed contract or at least make a serious bid for some attacking midfielders during the transfer window. AEC member Wirot Laohaphan is frequently cited for believing in a more possession-based European-style game, while fellow member Udom Fueangfung is rumored to be adamant that ManCity develop an open-play attack style with a lone striker up front.
