The verdict is approaching. Soon 11 months after the opening of the “trial of the century”, an answer concerning Manchester City is still long in coming. Accused by the Premier League of 115 violations of financial rules, the Mancunian club was to know its sanction last season. According to the British daily The Independentthe decision should not ultimately fall before October, with the hope that it will be returned during the international break, between the 4th and the 18th of the same month.
The charges against the Citizens are heavy: 115 counts in total, including 80 linked to financial offenses between 2009 and 2018. These facts concern in particular a non-compliance with the rules of financial fair play as well as criteria of “Profit and sustainability” imposed by the Premier League. In addition, 35 other accusations concern a possible lack of club cooperation during the surveys carried out between 2018 and 2023.
The hearing, started on September 16, was to take place in complete confidentiality and last several months. At the time, Pep Guardiola had been cautious about the outcome of the file: “In a month, I think there will be a verdict and a sentence. Afterwards, we will see my opinion on what happened ”he said in February. Despite a very active summer transfer window with nearly 177 million euros spent, the club firmly maintains its innocence.
Manchester City could call
The calendar of the procedure could still grow, especially if Manchester City appeals. But the potential consequences are heavy. The club risks not only fines and points deductions, but also a transfer prohibition, even a relegation. A recent precedent gives an idea of the sanctions: Everton had received eight penalty points after the 2023-2024 season for less serious offenses.
Manchester City, accustomed to the summits, could see his sporting future dramatically switch. It remains to wait for the verdict.
