When the Abu Dhabi United Group, owned by
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a member of the Abu Dhabi Royal Family and a politician in the UAE, purchased
Manchester City in 2008, they signalled their intentions by signing
Robinho for 43 million euros.
It was a sign that the Citizens intended to move out from the shadow of their neighbours and make an assault on Europe as well.
"We had a plan," explained City chairman
Khaldoon Al Mubarak.
"The first year was about learning, the second we had to take it to the next level and reach the Champions League and improve the club's structures.