Long-awaited case on Manchester City charges to start on Monday: British media

Sept. 13, 2024, 8:06 a.m.

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On Monday, a long-anticipated hearing will commence to address 115 charges levied against Manchester City, potentially having significant repercussions for the reigning Premier League champions.

Sky Sports reported on Thursday that the independent commission responsible for overseeing the case will commence its proceedings next week.

City faces 80 allegations of financial rule violations spanning from 2009 to 2018, along with an additional 35 charges related to their refusal to cooperate with the Premier League's investigation.

The club's transformation began in 2008 when Sheikh Mansour, a member of the United Arab Emirates royal family, took over ownership. This acquisition marked the beginning of a new era for City, propelling them to the top of English football.

Since 2010, Manchester City has been a powerhouse in English football, claiming eight of the last 13 Premier League championships, including an unprecedented four consecutive titles in the past four years.

City also lifted the Champions League for the first time in 2023.

These remarkable achievements have been overshadowed by controversy, with opposing fans often pointing to the accusations against City.

Nevertheless, the club has consistently maintained its innocence and expressed its determination to clear its reputation.

“Of course, it’s frustrating. I think the reference is always frustrating,” said City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak earlier this year.

“I can feel, of course, for our fan base, for everyone associated with the club, to have these charges constantly referenced.”

The Premier League formally accused Manchester City in February 2023, but the case has been held up in a protracted delay before an independent panel.

If found guilty of some or all of the charges, City faces a severe points deduction and potentially even expulsion from the Premier League.

Everton and Nottingham Forest suffered points deductions last season for breaches of the league’s profit and sustainability rules.

The city is facing accusations of failing to disclose accurate financial details between 2009 and 2018. This includes information on sponsorship income and the salaries of managers and players.

Other charges relate to breaches of both UEFA and the Premier League’s financial sustainability regulations.

Advertisement The hearing is scheduled to extend for at least two months, with a final verdict not anticipated until 2025.

Even if the commission finds City guilty of some or all of the charges, the club is likely to appeal the decision. This could further delay the implementation of any penalties.