Premier League admits City case dragging on beyond expectations

Inside the El Etihad Stadium, Premier League executive chairman Richard Masters told the BBC that the resolution of Manchester City’s case, involving 130 alleged financial irregularities, is taking longer than expected, even though the trial concluded at the end of 2024 and no decision has yet been announced, City.jpgXMUNDO.

Accusations and investigation timeline

The Premier League lodged formal accusations against Manchester City in February 2023, alleging that the club failed to provide accurate financial information and correct details of payments to coaches and players for the seasons spanning 2009‑2010 to 2017‑2018. The league also claimed breaches of UEFA’s financial fair play rules between 2009 and 2018 and of Premier League financial fair play between the 2015‑2016 and 2017‑2018 seasons. Further, the Premier League said the club did not cooperate with investigations carried out from December 2018 to February 2023.

The trial concerning the 130 alleged irregularities finished at the end of 2024, yet the Premier League has not disclosed the final resolution. Masters emphasized that the process remains ongoing despite the court’s closure.

Masters’ remarks to the BBC

In his conversation with the British broadcaster BBC, Masters acknowledged the delay, saying, “I accept that it is taking longer than expected and I understand people want to know as soon as possible what is happening, but I simply cannot say anything.” He added that the league’s rules are clear and that the only path is to allow the process to reach a natural conclusion.

Manchester City has denied all charges and engaged some of the United Kingdom’s leading sports law specialists to defend its position. The club seeks to avoid sanctions that could range from a monetary fine to points deductions, relegation, or even the loss of titles.

During the period examined by the Premier League, from the 2009‑2010 campaign through 2017‑2018, Manchester City secured three English league championships, one FA Cup and three League Cups. All those trophies were secured during the same 2009‑2010 to 2017‑2018 window that the Premier League is investigating.

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