A final ruling on Manchester City's alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations is now reportedly expected to stretch beyond the current season. The club faces charges relating to rule violations spanning a nine-year period from 2009 to 2018. The hearing concluded 13 months ago, with many hoping for a swift outcome. Pep Guardiola had previously indicated to journalists that he expected a decision by March this year.
Yet eight months after the City boss predicted an announcement, a resolution appears no nearer. CityAM claim that the protracted legal dispute between City and the Premier League may now drag on past the end of this campaign, with the eagerly awaited judgment expected to be "delivered in stages."
On Tuesday, City addressed the ongoing proceedings in their annual financial report, stating: "In response to the charges, the club issued a public statement that it welcomes the review of this matter by an independent commission, to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position.
"As at the date of publishing these financial statements the independent commission is still in the process of reviewing the matter."
Even once a final decision is reached, the matter may not be concluded. The commission will first rule solely on liability issues, with a separate sanctions hearing to follow if any charges are proven.
City would also maintain the right to appeal any guilty finding or penalty handed down. They reject all accusations levelled against them.
On potential sanctions, The Telegraph reported last year that rival clubs consider a straightforward points deduction inadequate if City are convicted of all 115 charges, claims City insist they possess irrefutable evidence to counter.
The independent commission holds the authority to impose any sanction "it shall think fit," meaning expulsion from the Premier League remains a theoretical prospect.
Yet relegation would create additional complexities, as the Premier League and the EFL function as distinct bodies. If demoted from the top-flight, City would be required to apply for admission into the English Football League (EFL).
An alternative penalty could include points deductions distributed across several seasons, which would hinder Guardiola's side in their pursuit of silverware and European qualification. The possibility of further hearings could extend the case well beyond this season.
City were initially charged over three years ago and, despite ongoing speculation, it now seems nearly impossible to predict when a final verdict will be reached.
City's former financial advisor, Stefan Borson, doesn't believe either City or the Premier League should be held responsible for the delay. Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: "Well, look, nobody knows because even the parties themselves expected to have been told by now.
"All the lawyers are surprised there is no decision at this stage, and that's on both sides. I'll tell you who's holding it up - the panel making the decision. They hold the pen.
"We can now assume, given how long it has taken and how surprised everyone is, that there's very little guidance being given to them, and they weren't effectively paid for their time from the moment the case ended."