Manchester City is still embroiled in an unresolved dispute with the Premier League over alleged violations of financial regulations, with a fresh timeline on a decision recently given.
This dates back to when the club was hit with more than 115 charges by the league in February of the 2022/23 season, covering a period from 2009 to 2018. The club has vigorously refuted any misconduct claims, having attended a hearing that began in September and wrapped in December, though a conclusion has not been publicized.
Anticipation for a verdict had grown high, especially after comments by Pep Guardiola suggested a springtime resolution; nevertheless, those moments have faded without further development. The City manager, speaking in February, remarked: “In one month I think there will be a verdict and a sentence and after we will see my opinion of what happened so far. Still, at the end, every club can do whatever they want.
“Because in the last 10 years we are third [for net spend], but in the last five even with what we won we are behind the top six teams so I’m sorry for the comments and that is why I don’t agree.
“In the last five years, we are the last team in the top six. Even after what we have spent in this transfer window, we are away from Chelsea, United, Arsenal, Tottenham.
“Even from Liverpool. The only reason why is we sell a lot in the last seasons but even with that I know this club, it is always ‘just about the money.'”.
The latest update on the Financial Fair Play saga suggests that a resolution remains elusive. In a Q&A session for The Athletic, when David Ornstein was queried about any developments with the phrase ‘any news on the charges?’, his succinct response was: “Zero.”
Liverpool, who have just secured the Premier League title, are preparing to hoist the trophy post their final season game against Crystal Palace at Anfield this coming weekend. Following the match, a victory parade is scheduled for Spring Bank Holiday Monday, where they’ll celebrate amidst throngs of supporters lining Liverpool’s streets.
With no verdict yet on the alleged infractions – which could result in severe sanctions like a hefty points deduction, a transfer ban, or a financial fine – Liverpool’s competitors will have the summer window to potentially outspend the £180 million ($241.5 million) invested in their squad during January.
If the decision goes in City’s favor, it could have significant implications for the Premier League’s financial regulations, affecting all teams within the league.
Kieran Maguire, a football finance expert, has recently forecasted that some charges will be decided in favor of the Premier League and others in favor of Manchester City, with the club likely holding the advantage throughout the process.
Maguire also mentioned potential changes to financial rules, noting, “I think we will see some sort of transitional rule with the APTs,” and highlighted Brighton’s approach, where owner Tony Bloom’s loans have been transformed into a hybrid of shares and debt.
“There will be discussions taking place between clubs, lawyers and accountants as to how existing loans can be reclassified as equity. Therefore, that will assist things going forward.
“I think, based on historical evidence, that City have got the upper hand over the Premier League. Nick DeMarco thinks it will be a score draw where the Premier League will win some of the 115 charges but City will have a far stronger case in others.”
