Man City chairman Khaldoon: UEFA trying to protect status quo

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon al Mubarak has slammed UEFA president Michel Platini over his latest plans.

UEFA have responded to the vast outlay of transfer fees by City and Real Madrid this summer by announcing "financial fair-play measures" which will require clubs to fund all activities through television income, ticket sales and commercial activities by 2012 if they wish to take part in European competitions.

But Khaldoon believes that would condemn such competitions to the monotony of the same clubs taking part every season.

"The argument that this is unhealthy suggests that the big clubs, which make the most money, must remain the big clubs, that the status quo must remain," Khaldoon said.

"Is Mr Platini saying that only Real Madrid and Barcelona have the right to be competitive in La Liga?

"I appreciate the argument about having so much money," Khaldoon added.

"The way I answer it is: Yes, this is a club, but it is a business too, and in business, you are there to compete. And we are striving to build the club the right way, with respect for its heritage, and the fans."