The hearing into Manchester City’s alleged 115 breaches of Premier League rules is set to commence on September 16 and is expected to last around two months. As the date approaches, other Premier League clubs have reportedly voiced concerns regarding the potential ramifications of the case.
The charges against City pertain to a 14-season period starting from 2009/10, encompassing various alleged violations that City firmly denies. These include failing to provide accurate financial information, discrepancies in player and manager payments, breaches of profit and sustainability regulations (PSR), violations of UEFA rules including financial fair play (FFP), and a lack of cooperation with Premier League investigations. City’s management asserts they possess “irrefutable evidence” to support their defense, with the matter to be resolved by an independent panel.
While the hearing will soon begin, a final verdict, including any possible appeals, is not expected until after the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
Concerns have been raised regarding the substantial legal fees the Premier League may incur, irrespective of the case’s outcome. The Daily Mail reports that the league could face legal costs amounting to “tens of millions” even if they succeed in their case against City.
This follows a commission ruling that the Premier League was responsible for a significant portion of the legal fees in their dispute with Everton. Initially, officials sought to make Everton pay the full £4.9 million bill associated with the PSR case, which resulted in a 10-point deduction that was later reduced to six on appeal. However, it was ultimately decided that Everton would only be liable for approximately one-third of the fee, leaving the Premier League to cover the remaining amount.
The Everton ruling has reportedly “triggered major concerns” among some clubs in the Premier League ahead of City’s hearing. Legal costs for City’s case are said to have already “entered the territory of tens of millions” and are expected to continue rising.
SPORTbible has reached out to Manchester City for comment, while the Premier League declined to comment when approached.
Credit: Sport Bible
