Premier League
Manchester City case urges Premier League clubs to act
In Manchester City’s office, the spokesperson reminds that the Premier League procedure remains ongoing, as the club has been found guilty of 114 of the 115 charges related to financial rules, a decision that could trigger legal action from other clubs.
Verdict and charges
The English club was found guilty of 114 of the 115 counts, including 80 financial breaches between 2009 and 2018 and 35 cooperation failures. No sanction has yet been set, and Manchester City intends to appeal the decision. The spokesperson emphasized that the club has complied with the procedure for eight years, relying on an independent, impartial and Fair‑minded regulator.
The charges were brought in February 2023 after a four‑year investigation, covering the tenures of Roberto Mancini, Manuel Pellegrini and the first two years of Pep Guardiola. The hearing process began in September 2024 and concluded in December after twelve weeks. The club has always denied the allegations, claiming to have an “irrefutable body of evidence.”
Reactions from rival clubs
Several Premier League teams have hired lawyers to examine the possibility of filing complaints and seeking compensation, citing the sporting and financial damage linked to a potential failure to qualify for the Champions League. Everton and Nottingham Forest, sanctioned in 2024, illustrate the risk of point deductions. In June, Everton was ordered to pay £35.1 million (around €40 million) to Burnley for a similar breach.
Manchester City receives 114 Fair Play sanctions live
Manchester City’s spokesperson said: “The Premier League procedure is still ongoing, with significant elements yet to be finalised and subject to strict confidentiality. In this regard, Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s February 2023 statement.”
Potential consequences and fan reactions
If the final decision confirms the breaches, sanctions could include a points deduction, or even exclusion from the Premier League, as with Everton and Nottingham Forest. The club could also face financial compensation demanded by other clubs. Fan David Mooney expressed his shock: “I’m a bit stunned, it’s a strange feeling after ten years of success.”
Another supporter, Matt, added: “We have lived incredible moments, but if the titles are taken away, we will fight to the end.” Manchester City currently sits at the top of the table after five consecutive wins and is preparing to face Liverpool at Anfield. The debate over the fairness of the financial regulations continues to divide the Premier League, underscoring the importance of Fair Play in English football.