As well as Manchester City and New York City, CFG have a minority interest in Ange Postecoglou-coached Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan.

But this month they added Uruguay side Club Atlético Torque to the group as well as last year's joint ownership deal with Pep Guardiola's brother Pere for La Liga side Girona.

They now also have a partnership deal with Eredivisie side NAC Breda too.

While some fans have misgivings about CFG owning clubs within the same confederation – and the possible conflicts of interest ahead in Europa or Champions League games – CFG is keen to stress the opportunities it can bring.

CFG's managing director of City Football Services Brain Marwood flew into Melbourne this week to hail the possibilities ahead for players in the CFG system.

City have expanded their Australian academy to take players of all ages right through to the A-League side, and are deliberately playing them in older age groups to challenge the youngsters.

While local established clubs have voiced concerns about City grabbing all the talented youngsters for themselves, City reject the criticism, and insist they can offer more than anyone else in Australia.

And Socceroo Aaron Mooy's route from AAMI Park to Huddersfield Town and the Premier League is being held up by the club as a potential pathway for any talented young Aussies in the A-League.