Financial probe looms over Manchester City as breaches top one hundred
Manchester City have been found guilty of almost all of the more than 100 financial rule breaches they were charged with in February 2023, an independent commission announced on 25 September 2026. The verdict follows a lengthy investigation that began in 2018 and concerns the club’s accounts at the Etihad Stadium.
Charges and timeline
The club faced the charge in February 2023, when the Premier League alleged over one hundred violations of its financial regulations. The independent commission, which began hearing the case on 16 September 2024, confirmed the findings on 25 September 2026. The process has been described as ongoing and subject to strict confidentiality.
Details of the breaches
The breaches span nine seasons from 2009‑10 to 2017‑18, during which Manchester City failed to report accurate financial information. They also omitted full details of former manager Roberto Mancini’s remuneration between 2009‑10 and 2012‑13, and of player contract payments from 2010‑11 to 2015‑16. Additionally, the club was accused of not cooperating with the investigation between 2018 and 2023.
Club's response and appeal
City’s spokesperson said, “The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality… Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023.” The club intends to appeal the decision. The Athletic noted that sanctions are still undecided, while the Premier League declined to comment.
Manchester City face severe penalties as Premier League probe deepens
Four months after the charge was issued, Manchester City won the Champions League for the first time in their history. At the time of the February 2023 referral, the club were on route to the third of four consecutive Premier League titles.
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Manchester City case urges Premier League clubs to act
With the commission’s findings now public, the club faces an uncertain future as the Premier League determines any potential penalties. The situation remains fluid, and the appeal process is expected to extend into the coming months.