Wayne Rooney says Man Utd unfit titles as FFP verdict hits Man City

In a quiet Manchester studio, Wayne Rooney laid out his view on the Premier League’s financial‑fair‑play verdict. He argued that Manchester United would not merit a retroactive Premier League medal if Manchester City are stripped of titles, and he warned that the FFP ruling could see City relegated.

Verdict and charges confirmed

The Premier League confirmed on Tuesday that the Etihad outfit had been found guilty of the majority of the 115 financial‑fair‑play charges brought against them. The statement released by the league detailed the findings and promised swift action.

The charges cover financial activity from the 2009‑10 season through to 2017‑18, while the club also faces accusations of failing to co‑operate with investigations between December 2018 and February 2023.

Potential sanctions and Rooney’s view

Sanctions have not yet been announced, but the league warned that stripping top‑flight titles is a possible outcome. Manchester City have collected eight Premier League crowns since Sheikh Mansour’s 2009 takeover, three of which fall within the period under scrutiny.

United eye City stars as Premier League fate hangs in balance

Rooney, who featured for Manchester United when they finished runners‑up to City in 2011‑12, said he would not feel comfortable accepting another Premier League medal. “I wouldn’t feel comfortable about accepting another Premier League medal if I’m being honest,” he told the Stick to United podcast, adding that United did not do enough that season to deserve the trophy.

He went further, predicting that City could face relegation. “I do think we’re going to see City getting relegated,” the 40‑year‑old said, suggesting the club could be dropped to the lowest possible league with spending restrictions and a possible 20‑point deduction over three seasons.

While the final penalties remain to be decided, Rooney’s comments underline the wider impact of the FFP storm on English football, highlighting how financial compliance now threatens even the most successful clubs.