Man City add Chinese minnows Sichuan Jiuniu to global network

Third-tier Chinese side Sichuan Jiuniu have become the seventh club to join Manchester City’s global network.

City Football Group, UBTECH and China Sports Capital have announced the joint purchase of the club, based in Chengdu, who play in the China League Two.

It marks the end of City’s owners’ search for a project in China and extends their portfolio to the Asian market.

Manchester City’s owners have extended their global portfolio after acquiring a Chinese club

Their presence in China already includes offices in Shanghai and Shenzhen, commericial partnerships and community projects. 

They already have clubs based in New York, Australia, Japan, Spain and Uruguay.  

Chief executive Ferran Soriano said: ‘Today marks an exciting new chapter in the growth of City Football Group. China is an extremely important football market, which we have been focused on for some time. 

‘We are delighted to welcome Sichuan Jiuniu FC to our Group, alongside our partners, China Sports Capital and UBTECH.

‘We see this as a natural extension of our existing activities. 

‘We believe strongly in the future of football in China. We are making a long-term, sustainable commitment to grow and develop Sichuan Jiuniu FC and to nurture Chinese footballing talent. 

‘These objectives are equally important. Our immediate focus will be strengthening our football performance, using all of our experience and know-how, forging a strong relationship with our fans and building a strong presence in the community. We cannot wait to get started.’

James Zhou, founder and CEO of UBTECH, added: ‘Today is an important moment for football in China. We all have a dream to develop Sichuan football and Chinese football. 

‘Sichuan Jiuniu Football Club was formed by the 2017 Sichuan National Games U20. 

‘The team reflects the spirit of Sichuan football. It is very exciting for a young and promising team to join as a family.’