Reports indicate that the Premier League and Manchester City have scheduled a significant hearing, set to take place before an independent panel, marking a pivotal moment in the competition’s history.
In February, the top-tier league accused its champions of 115 purported violations of financial regulations, following an inquiry initiated in 2018.
During an enduring saga, both the competition and the club have maintained silence, refraining from commenting when approached. Nevertheless, it has come to light that a tentative date for the showdown has been set for the late autumn of 2024.
Those with knowledge of the situation believe that a conclusion may not follow until the end of next season – which is when City boss Pep Guardiola‘s current contract is due to expire.
The current phase of the previously confidential process involves gathering statements from witnesses, a stage expected to continue until the coming spring.
If the trial proceeds as planned, a verdict is anticipated around the summer of 2025. However, potential delays could extend the proceedings, and in the event of an unfavorable outcome, it’s likely that either party may appeal, adding significant time to the resolution. Man City, accused of 115 breaches spanning 14 seasons from 2009-10 onwards, including issues with financial reporting and lack of cooperation with a Premier League investigation, refute any wrongdoing.
While Man City cannot appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, where they previously overturned a UEFA-imposed Champions League ban, they may explore alternative avenues. Notably, Everton, charged with financial rule violations in March, received a 10-point deduction earlier this month, which they are currently appealing.
Guardiola recently stated that everyone outside the club wanted to see them punished over the allegations.
‘We are innocent until guilt is proved,’ he said before last weekend’s draw with Liverpool. ‘I know the people want it (City punished). I know, I feel it. I will wait and see, and after the sentence has been done we will come here and explain.’
He added that he would remain at the club, even if they were found guilty and relegated down the divisions.
‘Absolutely, I will not consider my future (if) it depends being here or being in League One,’ Guardiola said. ‘There is more chance to stay if we are in League One than if we were in the Champions League.’
City have previously insisted that they have ‘irrefutable evidence’ to back their case
