The hearing into the 115 charges against Manchester City for allegedly breaking the Premier League’s financial rules started on Monday. These charges came after a four-year investigation and were referred to an independent commission in February 2023.
The club is accused of violating financial rules between 2009 and 2018, but Manchester City has denied all the allegations. The club claims they have a large amount of undeniable evidence to support their case.
What Are the Allegations?
The Premier League has accused City of not providing “accurate financial information” that reflects the club’s true financial position. This includes revenue from sponsorships and operating expenses. Additionally, City is accused of failing to cooperate with the investigation.
When the investigation started, City described the claims as “completely false.” They said the allegations, which were first reported by the German newspaper Der Spiegel, were based on “illegal hacking” and taken out of context.
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City’s Success and Manager’s Response
Since being taken over by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008, City has won eight league titles, several cups, and the Champions League.
Speaking last Friday, City’s manager Pep Guardiola said, “The process is starting soon, and I hope it ends soon.” He expressed his eagerness for the outcome and added, “Everyone is innocent until proven guilty. We’ll see what happens.“
Key Details of the Charges
Main Charges
- 54 times: Failure to provide accurate financial information (2009-10 to 2017-18)
- 14 times: Incorrect details of payments to players and managers (2009-10 to 2017-18)
- 5 times: Failure to comply with UEFA’s Financial Fair Play rules (2013-14 to 2017-18)
- 7 times: Breach of Premier League’s financial rules (2015-16 to 2017-18)
- 35 times: Lack of cooperation with the Premier League investigation (Dec 2018 – Feb 2023)
How Long Will the Hearing Last?
The hearing is expected to continue for about 10 weeks, lasting until late November 2024. However, the final verdict is not expected immediately. It is anticipated that a decision will come sometime in early 2025.
Will There Be an Appeal?
This case cannot be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). However, either side can appeal, and a new independent panel will be formed if needed.
Legal Costs and Involvement
This case has been in progress for six years, and legal costs are already estimated to be in the tens of millions. After the hearing, the winning side is expected to request payment for legal fees. For example, the Premier League asked Everton to cover the full £4.9m legal costs from their six-point deduction case last season. However, an appeal ruled that Everton would pay £1.7m, while the Premier League would cover the remaining £3.2m.
If the Premier League ends up covering some costs, these will be divided among the 20 clubs in the league.
The Legal Teams
Manchester City’s legal team is led by Lord Pannick KC, who reportedly charges £5,000 an hour. He previously helped City overturn a two-year European ban in 2020 and has also advised former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
On the other side, sports law expert Adam Lewis KC is believed to be leading the Premier League’s legal team. Linklaters, a well-known London law firm, represented the Premier League during Everton’s case and might be involved in this one as well.
Where Is the Case Being Heard?
The hearing is not a traditional court case, so it is being conducted privately. The exact location is not disclosed, and parts of the hearing may take place remotely through video calls.
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