Abu Dhabi Group 'committed to City boss Hughes'

MANAGER BACKED: Al-Mubarak has dismissed reports Hughes is facing the chop. (Getty Images)

The new Abu Dhabi owners of Manchester City have dismissed reports that manager Mark Hughes could be facing the chop.

Club chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak, who is leading the Abu Dhabi United Group that took the club over at the end of August, said he was "personally committed" to Hughes in a statement issued on the club website on Monday.

He spoke of his respect for Hughes and the club's executive chairman Garry Cook, as well as of his excitement at the plans taking shape for the future.

He also revealed that while immediate additions to the squad would be made in January, it was the long-term plans which were also at the forefront of his mind.

“We are calm and under control and we on the board have the highest regard for Mark. I am personally committed to him as I am committed to the partnership between Executive Chairman Garry Cook, Mark and myself," he said.

“This is a winning team that is going through a learning curve right now. While January is going to be an interesting opportunity for Mark to improve the team, this is an exciting 10-year dynasty that we are building and we are only in the first two months."

Al-Mubarak also laughed off suggestions regarding the manager's position made in some newspapers in the UK media.

"Thankfully I do not read the newspapers that are saying he is under pressure but I find it incredible. Just today I am told that there are reports that we are associated with two different coaches and that we are about to sign them," he said.

"It is rubbish. I am committed to Mark and his team and I think people will see in January that we have good foundations in place in the team, we have a good coach and that we will be upgrading in terms of players. Hopefully the results will come."

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