The Premier League’s mounting concern over escalating legal costs in the Manchester City Financial Fair Play (FFP) case may expedite a long-awaited verdict, reports suggest. The Citizens, who recently endured a less-than-stellar season under Pep Guardiola despite securing four consecutive Premier League titles, find themselves under a cloud of FFP allegations with a judgment anticipated imminently.
Guardiola’s side, presently positioned fifth in the Premier League after seven fixtures, remain embroiled in uncertainty as the FFP case looms large. An independent commission began hearings in September to deliberate on 115 charges brought against Manchester City by the Premier League, with proceedings concluding in December.
This investigation, initially launched in 2018, culminated in legal charges in February 2023, subsequently directing the club to an independent commission. Central to these charges are allegations linked to the precise reporting of financial data, including sponsorship valuations, compensation disclosures for management and players, alongside compliance with UEFA’s financial protocols and the Premier League’s own Profitability and Sustainability Regulations (PSR). Moreover, Manchester City faces accusations of non-cooperation with the league’s inquiry.
The charges span every season from 2009-10 through 2022-23, with Guardiola previously expressing an expectation for a resolution in March, a timeline now shrouded in secrecy. At that time, the City boss stated: “In one month, I think there will be a verdict and a sentence, then we will see my view on what has transpired. Nonetheless, every club retains the freedom to pursue its path.”
Despite City’s notable achievements, Guardiola highlighted: “In the last five years, even with our accomplishments, we’re lagging behind the top six financially. This enduring perception that it is all ‘just about the money’ persists.”
Football Insider reports that the Premier League’s worry over burgeoning legal fees compels a swift resolution, with a potential announcement expected ‘within days.’ Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson is confident that a decision will transpire either during this international break or the next.
In discussions with Football Insider, Borson remarked: “The most plausible window is now, possibly aligning with an international break. The panel’s had 10 months to finalise its decision. Although not typical arbitration but a disciplinary process, this privately funded panel should adhere to this timeline.”
Earlier this week, Borson reiterated the likelihood of an imminent verdict, stating: “Ten months is sufficient, and there’s scant justification for further delay. People anticipate a decision due to time passage rather than directional signs.”
Borson concluded: “The verdict could arrive any time. An email release wouldn’t surprise me, and if it does, the timeframe for public dissemination remains to be seen.”