REUTERS/Tyrone Siu
The expectation among most is that Manchester City will face unprecedented sanctions for their rule-breaking. However, a little-known loophole could see them avoid one notable punishment.
City have been found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules between 2009 and 2018. The charges relate to ‘sham’ contracts which helped inflate revenue and costs, as well as a lack of cooperation with the investigation, as finances were concealed by the club.
Talk of a hefty points deduction has long been touted as one potential punishment. Beyond that, there have been calls for titles to be stripped and possibly even expulsion from the English top flight. These sanctions would have a direct impact on the Premier League, but what about the club's European exploits?
Pep Guardiola holding up six fingers whilst stood next to the Premier League trophy.
Pep Guardiola holding up six fingers whilst stood next to the Premier League trophy.
Man City May Be Allowed To Compete in Champions League Regardless of Sanctions
Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
As per BBC Sport, senior figures within English football are 'concerned' that Man City could play in the Champions League next season even if they are relegated from the Premier League as punishment for breaching financial regulations.
In short, Enzo Maresca's side could win the Champions League this season, which would provide qualification for the competition as titleholders. One may think that City would lose the right if they are kicked out of the English top-flight, but it's not as simple as that.
Indeed, Man City would retain Champions League status, regardless of where they sit in the domestic pyramid. It appears there is no automatic mechanism to remove the Etihad side from a European competition if they qualify on sporting merit.
There is actually a UEFA licence that every side needs to play in Europe, but it doesn't take into account sanctions or breaches related to historical offences. Due to this little-known loophole, Enzo Maresca's side could be playing in the Champions League next season, while also facing teams in the lower divisions of English football.
How the UEFA Licence Works for Champions League Teams
Manchester City's Erling Haaland lifts the Champions League trophy.
The BBC Sport report went on to explain how, having spoken to senior figures within the game, many 'are concerned' that Man City could secure Champions League football next season despite the charges. As such, the club could be given a huge financial boost by playing in Europe.
The immediate issue surrounds the UEFA licence, which every club needs in order to play in Europe. One source reportedly said the issue of City's licence "had been raised" and that a solution "would require the sort of joined-up thinking that's been a bit lacking so far".
The licences are issued by the Football Association (FA), but the process itself is delegated to the Premier League. Explaining how it all works, BBC journalist Dale Johnson wrote:
"The licences are based upon current information which does not take into account sanctions or breaches related to historical offences.
"If a club fulfils all minimum criteria required for admission, the licence cannot be refused. The key reasons a club may fail relate to overdue payables to other teams, players or outstanding tax liabilities.
"Match-fixing convictions within the last 10 years, or an integrity conflict related to multi-club ownership, are considered but would not apply to City."
Another source added that "licences are awarded on the basis of current financial performance, so the grounds to refuse one are unclear."