Manchester City are facing the next stage of a long-running Premier League financial case after an independent commission reportedly found the club guilty on 114 of 115 charges.
The charges relate to alleged financial rule breaches between 2009 and 2018 and were brought following a four-year Premier League investigation.
The latest development was first reported by The Athletic, which cited sources familiar with the proceedings.
One charge dismissed
The independent commission reportedly upheld 114 charges against Manchester City.
One charge was dismissed.
The case covers nine seasons and includes allegations concerning the accuracy of financial information supplied by the club, as well as other financial matters.
The Premier League formally referred the case to an independent commission in February 2023 after completing its investigation.
City maintain their position
Manchester City have repeatedly rejected the allegations.
Following the reported verdict, a club spokesperson said the Premier League process had not yet been completed.
The spokesperson also said the club had respected due process during the proceedings and maintained the position it adopted when the charges were originally brought.
City are expected to challenge the decision through the appeal process.
What happens next?
The reported guilty findings do not represent the end of the case.
The commission still has to determine the sanctions, meaning the precise consequences for Manchester City have not yet been established.
Reports have indicated that possible sporting and financial penalties remain under consideration. Some reports have also raised the possibility of retrospective consequences, although no such sanction has been imposed at this stage.
The club’s potential appeal could also affect how and when any punishment is ultimately implemented.
Case dates back to 2009
The Premier League’s case concerns Manchester City’s financial conduct over a nine-season period ending in 2018.
The investigation became public in February 2023, when the Premier League announced that the club had been referred to an independent commission over alleged breaches of its rules.
Manchester City have consistently denied the allegations.
The latest reported verdict represents a major development in the case, but the final outcome will depend on the sanctions process and any appeal proceedings.
