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Manchester City chief executive Garry Cook announces his resignation
Cook leaves his position after three years with the Premier League club
The resignation follows an email Cook allegedly sent to the mother of a City player
Garry Cook has resigned as chief executive of English Premier League big- spenders Manchester City, after an email attributed to him appeared to mock the seriously ill mother of one of City’s players.
Cook, who had held the post for three years, initially denied sending the email to Dr Anthonia Onuoha, the mother of City defender Nedum Onuoha, who is suffering from cancer.
However, following an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the email, Cook has now released a statement confirming his resignation, admitting to an “error of judgment”.
In the statement, posted on City’s official website, Cook said: “I am privileged to have held my position at Manchester City and to have experienced the opportunities that it has presented.
“The privilege is in part offset by the significant personal focus which has, at times, detracted from the magnificent achievements of those working at the football club.”
Cook continued: “It is that factor, together with my error of judgment in this matter, that has prompted me to reach this decision, which I believe is in the best interests of the football club.”
City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak confirmed he had written a letter of apology to Dr Onuoha, after she had complained to the club about the content of the email, which was destined for City official Brian Marwood but sent to her in error.
Dr Onuoha acts as her son’s agent, and the email allegedly made reference to her ability to deal with a contract dispute between player and club, while suffering from the illness.
Mubarak added: “Gary’s judgment in this matter should in no way lead to his accomplishments being overlooked.
“On every level, the club is unrecognizable from the organization which he inherited and our staff and supporter services, community outreach and commercial activity have seen unparalleled growth under his direction with yet more projects to be realized.”
City are currently second in the Premier League table, behind rivals Manchester United on goal difference, with both clubs having won all three of their matches so far.
