“There has been such a fallout between (Pep Guardiola’s) Manchester City and the Premier League”
Image credit: SPORTbible
Manchester City is on the brink of receiving a long-awaited verdict regarding their legal battle with the Premier League over 115 alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
The independent commission overseeing the case is expected to announce its findings imminently, potentially leading to severe consequences for the reigning champions.
The Charges and City’s Defense
The Premier League initially charged City with violating financial rules over a nine-year period, alongside accusations of failing to cooperate with the league’s investigation.
City, however, has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that they possess irrefutable evidence to support their case.
READ ALSO
A hearing was held from September to December last year, during which both parties presented their arguments before an independent panel.
Now, with the verdict looming, possible punishments could range from hefty fines and points deductions to board resignations.
Potential Consequences for Manchester City
According to football finance expert Kieran Maguire, the outcome of the case could trigger a major shake-up at the club.
🔵⚪Man City could pay huge payouts if found guilty of breaching the FFP rules
— Sport Trends247 (@SportTrends247) February 9, 2025
In 2019, The English club were charged by the Premier League for allegedly breaching the FFP rules between 2009 to 2018.
Details in the comment section pic.twitter.com/9FYBbjcjmE
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Maguire noted that if City is found guilty, the decision could spark resignations at the highest level and lead to significant league sanctions, including a points deduction.
READ ALSO
Maguire also pointed out that while previous commission rulings—such as those involving Nottingham Forest and Everton—were shared with both parties beforehand to allow coordinated press releases, the hostile relationship between City and the Premier League may lead to a more abrupt announcement.
“There has been sort of a – we’re on opposite sides of the argument but we’re still going to act professionally. I think there’s been such a fallout from Manchester City and the Premier League that might not necessarily be the case,” he explained.
