Manchester City Raises Concerns with BBC Radio Manchester Over Coverage Gaps as Club Is Left Without Reporter for Derby Preview

Manchester City is raising concerns about BBC Radio Manchester’s recent coverage of the club, particularly its absence during a key pre-derby press conference.

Club officials were taken aback when no dedicated City reporter was present for the event, marking a rare, if not unprecedented, occurrence.

Unusual Reporting Changes

The BBC holds the rights to broadcast Manchester City’s matches, and the club typically enjoys coverage from a dedicated reporter assigned to them.

However, recent changes have seen the regular City journalist being reassigned, with other reporters stepping in.

This shift has caused some confusion and frustration at the Etihad Stadium, as they feel this isn’t happening with any other top-flight teams.

Frustration Over Missing Coverage

For Manchester City, this change in approach is particularly concerning because they believe their supporters are missing out on important coverage.

The lack of a City reporter at such a significant event like the derby preview was the tipping point, prompting the club to reach out to Radio Manchester to express their concerns.

The Bigger Picture

Local BBC stations take their rights deals seriously, especially when it comes to prominent football clubs.

While BBC Radio Manchester has this deal with City, they don’t have a similar agreement with Manchester United.

Despite this, BBC insiders have stated that no “official complaint” has been lodged, although some sources, including Mail Sport, suggest otherwise.

The broadcaster assured that City’s coverage is still on track, with both a City and United commentator for the derby, as usual.

So, what’s next for City and the BBC? Only time will tell if these tensions will affect the station’s relationship with the club moving forward.