John O’Neill has been overlooked as Manchester City chief executive, marginally missing out on what would be one of world sports top jobs.
The honours went to former Barcelona general manager Ferran Soriano, who looks set to pocket no less than $3 million a year.
O’Neill can be flattered by the interest but the overwhelming feeling will be that of so close, but yet so far.
Manchester City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak looked to tap into O’Neill’s vast resources that derived from many successful years working as chief executive of Australian Rugby Union and heading Football Federation Australia.
O’Neill played a pivotal role in the rise of football in Australia, being instrumental in the acquisition of Guus Hiddink after parting ways with Frank Farina.
Manchester City opted for the safe commodity, appointing Soriano who can boast a rich history of European success. Soriano was introduced to the Barcelona board in 2003, at the time the club’s income was considered the 13th highest in Europe, he departed having driven Barcelona to 2nd on the list.
Soriano reportedly pipped O’Neill at the line having attracted the support of Spain’s King Juan Carlos.
You feel the persuasion of a King would have a lot more pulling power then if Julia Gilliard was listed as a referee. O’Neill was solely represented by resume and reputation alone, Soriano to invest in the opinion of those of a higher echelon is behaviour indicative with fear. O’Neill was evidently a worrying player in the race, and so he should have been.
O’Neill intends to see out the two remaining years on his ARU contract, but will no doubt be considered for future positions in England and Europe for that matter after leaving a positive impression on Manchester City.
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