Manchester City may soon face huge compensation claims from European clubs if they are found guilty of serious breaches.
The case involves 115 charges spanning a nine-year period. Consequently, a negative verdict could have major financial consequences.
Back in February 2023, the Premier League charged City for allegedly breaching financial fair play rules between 2009 and 2018. The club is accused of concealing payments through third parties. Instead, these funds were disguised as sponsorship revenue.
An independent commission held a hearing from September until December. Now, the panel is considering its verdict. Therefore, the outcome may reshape the club’s future.
Furthermore, clubs such as Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Manchester United have lodged legal notices. They have reserved the right to seek payouts if serious breaches are proven. Moreover, other European clubs may also claim compensation if they can demonstrate financial harm.
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
In addition, City faces other severe sanctions. Some reports even warn of possible relegation to the Championship. The club’s lawyers plan to appeal any punishment, as they insist the club did nothing wrong.
Meanwhile, the ongoing case has not stopped City from strengthening their squad. Four new signings have joined the club this transfer window. Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Nico Gonzalez helped push January spending to £180 million.
Also, reports suggest that a transfer embargo could be one of the sanctions if the charges stick. However, City’s spending was not aimed at preparing for such a ban. Instead, every pound was spent solely to improve the squad.
Finally, the club has shown massive confidence despite the controversy. Both Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland recently signed new contracts. Guardiola’s deal runs until 2027, while Haaland is contracted until 2034, and City currently sit fifth in the Premier League.
