Need to know
Fans are still awaiting a verdict on the 115 charges dished out to Manchester City in 2023
A general view of the Etihad Stadium
It's been almost four years since Manchester City were first charged(Image: Getty Images)
What is the state of play in the Premier League's case against Manchester City?
The allegations: The case stems from 115 initial charges levied against Manchester City in February 2023 covering the period between 2009 and 2018. The accusations focus primarily on failing to provide accurate financial information, underreporting manager and player compensation details and refusing to cooperate with the Premier League's investigation.
Hearing anniversary: The hearing between City and the Premier League's independent commission began on September 16, 2024. This private 12-week hearing, held in London, concluded in December 2024 after a review of massive amounts of evidence spanning nearly a decade.
Club's stance: City have consistently and vehemently denied all allegations, asserting they have a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence supporting their innocence. The club claims to have strictly adhered to financial regulations throughout the period in question.
Verdict status: A public verdict has experienced extended delays beyond early target estimates, as the independent panel has required substantial time to process the extensive arguments. Football finance experts and reports indicate that analysing 115 individual charges and defences is an extraordinarily complex task.
Frustration: Renowned sports lawyer Nick De Marco is among those to have aired their frustration over the impasse. He took to LinkedIn to post: "It is a most incredible delay. So much for those who argue that one of the advantages of sports arbitration is it is speedier and more efficient than using the courts."
Potential penalties: If the independent commission finds City guilty of the most serious alleged infractions, the club could face a wide range of sanctions. Penalties could range from substantial financial fines to massive points deductions - potentially totalling 40 to 60 points - or even outright expulsion from the Premier League.
Impending appeal process: Regardless of how the independent commission initially rules, the losing party could launch a lengthy appeal. Legal experts estimate the total legal costs for both parties could top £100m before a final, binding resolution is reached.