Manchester City players fear relegation after conviction

In Manchester City's dressing room there is now fear: players dread a heavy points deduction that could cause relegation to the Championship, after the Premier League confirmed on Tuesday that the club was found guilty of 114 financial rule breaches between 2009 and 2018.

Verdict and financial breaches

The Premier League confirmed on Tuesday that Manchester City was found guilty of 114 charges for serious breaches of the financial rules. The breaches span a period of nine seasons, from 2009 to 2018. One of the key findings is that the club is estimated to have artificially inflated revenue by more than £900 million and reduced costs. The committee also concluded that City “clearly tried to circumvent the rules.”

Although not all allegations regarding cooperation with the investigation have been confirmed, the majority of the allegations were upheld. The Premier League indicated that the sanctions will be announced at a later hearing. City has announced that it will lodge an appeal before Friday 2 October.

Possible sanctions and club response

Within the squad, fear is growing that a heavy points deduction could push the club into the Championship. Analysts suggest that such a loss of points could displace the current Premier League leader. Possible punishments include hefty fines, a transfer ban, the stripping of titles from the 2009‑2018 period, or a massive points deduction. According to an agent speaking to L’Equipe, such a scenario would inevitably lead to relegation.

An agent for a Manchester City player told L’Equipe that among the players there “is a feeling that a substantial points deduction will inevitably lead to relegation.” He emphasized that the discussion is now taking place in the dressing room, where the club’s future is at stake.

Manchester City has issued an official statement saying it is “disappointed and surprised” by the Premier League committee’s ruling. The club asserts that it is innocent of the accusations and that there is “a substantial amount of irrefutable evidence” supporting its position. City states that it will “remain undeterred” and will use all available legal and regulatory avenues to appeal.

The case highlights the growing focus on financial fair play in English football. If the committee ultimately imposes a heavy sanction, it could set a precedent for other top clubs that manipulate their accounts. For now, Manchester City’s future remains uncertain, while the Premier League promises to conclude the procedure as quickly as possible.