Pep Guardiola, the then Manager of Manchester City, poses for a photo with the Premier League title trophy following his team’s victory during the Premier League match between Manchester City and West Ham United at Etihad Stadium on May 19, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo/Getty Images)
Manchester City have been found guilty on almost all of the charges related to alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules, The Athletic reported on Friday.The report said the club were found guilty on all but one of the 115 charges brought against them. The sanctions have not been decided yet, but possible punishments still include points deductions, fines and even expulsion from the Premier League.City, who are currently top of the Premier League after five matches in the 2026 season, were charged by the league in February 2023 following an investigation into alleged financial rule breaches between 2009 and 2018. The club has consistently denied any wrongdoing throughout the process.“The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality. As such Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023,” a Manchester City spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Athletic.“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.”City’s statement in February 2023 said the club was “surprised” by the charges and it “welcomes 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”.The Premier League’s investigation began after German newspaper Der Spiegel published leaked financial documents linked to the club in November 2018.
What the case is about
Manchester City were accused of failing to provide accurate financial information, including details of payments to players and coaches, and of breaching the league’s financial sustainability rules.The allegations stem from documents published by Der Spiegel, including emails that allegedly showed sponsorship revenue from Abu Dhabi-based companies Etihad and Etisalat had been inflated by disguising investment from Sheikh Mansour’s Abu Dhabi United Group as commercial income.Other documents allegedly showed off-the-books payments to former manager Roberto Mancini through consultancy fees from a club in Abu Dhabi.
What could happen next?
The outcome of the independent hearing, which began more than two years ago, could have major implications for English football.If Manchester City are ultimately sanctioned, the punishments could include a significant points deduction, financial penalties or, in the most serious scenario, expulsion from the Premier League.Everton and Nottingham Forest both received points deductions during the 2023-24 Premier League season for breaches of profit and sustainability rules.Any severe punishment could also raise questions over City’s recent titles and whether rival clubs pursue claims for compensation or seek to have honours reviewed if they believe City gained an unfair sporting advantage.Under Sheikh Mansour’s ownership since 2008, Manchester City have won eight Premier League titles, four FA Cups, seven League Cups and one UEFA Champions League.