Manchester City have been found guilty of almost every charge against them.
Manchester City are facing a substantial punishment after being found guilty
Manchester City are facing a substantial punishment after being found guilty (Image: Getty)
Manchester City are planning an immediate appeal after being found guilty on all but one of the 115 charges levelled against them by the Premier League. They were charged in 2023 following an investigation into alleged breaches between 2009 and 2018, and referred to an independent commission to adjudicate over the charges.
City were accused of failing to provide accurate financial information and details of payments to players and coaches, as well as breaches of UEFA’s financial fair play (FFP) regulations and the Premier League's profitability and sustainability rules (PSR). The club have consistently denied any wrongdoing and will promptly appeal their guilty verdict, according to The Athletic.
A spokesperson for City is quoted as saying: "The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality.
"As such, Manchester City’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023.
"The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence."
In their 2023 statement, City said they were "surprised" by the charges and would welcome "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".
City have won eight Premier League titles, four FA Cups, seven League Cups and one Champions League since they were acquired by Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008. Six of those honours have arrived since the charges were brought against them.
It's not yet known how City will be punished if their appeal fails. They could be fined, deducted points or even forcibly relegated from the Premier League altogether.
Speaking last month, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said the verdict had taken longer than expected, given the complexity of the case.
"I have to keep everything confidential until we're ready to hand down a decision and be clear about it," explained Masters.
"I can't give any update on timing or what's happening. There's only one available route through this, which is to allow the process to take its course. It has taken longer than expected and I do understand the frustrations."