An independent hearing concerning the 115 Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges against Manchester City has commenced today. The outcome is poised to be consequential for both the club and the league.
The panel is anticipated to require approximately ten weeks to review all the charges, with a decision expected by the spring of next year. Should the reigning Premier League Champions, Manchester City, be found guilty, potential sanctions range from financial penalties to a points deduction or even expulsion from the league. Additionally, this could open the door for legal actions against the club by other teams.
The alleged violations span over 14 seasons and pertain to the failure to provide accurate financial information on aspects such as transfers and wages. These actions allegedly afforded the club an undue advantage over its competitors. Manchester City firmly denies all charges. Previously, the club evaded severe punishment when UEFA determined in 2020 that it had committed substantial breaches of FFP regulations between 2012 and 2016. However, a two-year suspension from European competitions was subsequently overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport later that year.
Responding to the current allegations, Manchester City, owned by Abu Dhabi, expressed its approval for the independent review by the commission. The club stated it looked forward to an impartial consideration of the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence supporting its stance, adding, “As such we look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all.”
Everton and Nottingham Forest will be closely observing the proceedings, having previously experienced severe points deductions under the league’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, jeopardising their top-flight statuses. Earlier this year, Manchester City initiated legal action against the Premier League, challenging its Associated Party Transaction rules related to commercial and sponsorship deals involving entities associated with the club’s owners. Manchester City contends that these rules are unlawful and seeks damages for revenue lost due to these regulations. The club has depicted itself as a victim of what it calls the “tyranny of the majority,” referring to the Premier League’s requirement for any changes to be approved by 14 out of its 20 member teams.
The situation has garnered widespread criticism of the club. Football writer and broadcaster, Henry Winter, remarked, “I don’t think anyone looks at Manchester City as the oppressed.” He added, “This just reeks. Who runs the game in this country? Should it be the democracy of the Premier League, with the 14 majority of teams who vote things through? Or should English football be run from Saudi (Arabia) or Abu Dhabi?” Many believe this legal action by Manchester City is either an attempt to divert attention from the FFP charges or a strategy to negotiate with the league to mitigate or dismiss the charges. Currently, neither Manchester City nor the Premier League have made any comments on the matter.
The outcome of the hearing could have far-reaching implications for Manchester City and the Premier League. Whether the club is found guilty or not, the ramifications will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of English football.