Manchester City threatened with heavy sanctions after financial verdict
Manchester City has been found guilty of 114 of the 115 offences it was accused of for breaching the Premier League's financial regulations, and, while announcing its appeal, the club faces heavy sanctions, including the loss of titles, a points deduction or even relegation, under the scrutiny of the other side of the Channel.
Details of the investigation and offences
In February 2023, the Premier League formally charged Manchester City after four years of investigation. The club was accused of 80 financial offences covering the 2009‑2018 period, including over‑inflated sponsorship contracts and undeclared salary supplements.
An additional 35 violations were added, related to a lack of cooperation during the investigative phase. In total, the authorities listed 115 counts, of which 114 were confirmed.
Since its takeover in 2008 by the Abu Dhabi United Group, led by Sheikh Mansour, Manchester City has amassed three league titles, an FA Cup and three League Cups during the period in question. The stripping of these titles is among the possible sanctions.
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Potential sanctions and reactions
Aggrieved clubs, placed second or relegated, are considering seeking financial compensation. Rio Ferdinand, former Manchester United defender, mocked X: “Another Premier League medal to add to the trophy cabinet.” indicates that several clubs have already sought legal advice, while the Guardian predicts a new wave of lawsuits.
The Athletic believes that immediate relegation appears unlikely, even though a significant points deduction could jeopardise the club's Premier League status. According to the same outlet, a conviction would confirm that the league allowed its rules to be flouted, tarnishing an entire era of Premier League history.
At the same time, goalkeeper David de Gea, now at Fiorentina, taunted X by asking “Quanti titoli di Premier League ho vinto allora?” The Spaniard, who spent twelve seasons at Manchester United until 2023 with 545 appearances and a Premier League title, recalled his past as a rival of the Citizens.
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Manchester City has announced its intention to appeal the decision and awaits the Premier League's next ruling. The outcome of this appeal will determine whether the club will indeed have to return its trophies, suffer a points deduction or face a possible relegation.