Investigation against Manchester City closed: Guardiola risks relegation from the Premier League

2024-12-10 11:44:54Sport SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX
Investigation against Manchester City closed: Guardiola risks relegation from
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The long and highly anticipated hearing for Manchester City, for 115 breaches of Premier League rules, concluded on Monday, according to several British media outlets, but a decision is not expected before 2025.

According to the Daily Mail, closing arguments in the case, which began on September 16 at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in London, were presented last Friday before an independent commission.

City categorically denies any wrongdoing but risks severe penalties if found guilty.

Among the possible punishments is relegation to the Championship (the second English category).

Last season, Everton and Nottingham Forest were both deducted points for breaching the league's financial viability and earnings rules. The English champions are accused of 80 breaches of financial rules between 2009 and 2018, as well as a further 35 breaches for failing to cooperate with a Premier League investigation.

Premier League allegations

Since the club was purchased in 2008 by Sheikh Mansour, a member of the United Arab Emirates royal family, City has become a dominant force in English football.

The club has won eight of the last 13 Premier League titles, including a record four consecutive championships in the last four seasons. City also won the Champions League in 2023, beating Inter in the final.

However, these achievements have been marred by controversy, as opposing fans have often made references to the allegations facing the club. City have always denied the allegations and promised to clear their name.

The Premier League brought the charges in February 2023, but there has been a long wait for an independent panel to review the case. City are accused of failing to disclose accurate financial information between 2009 and 2018, including sponsorship revenue and details of the salaries of directors and players. Other charges relate to breaches of UEFA and the Premier League's financial sustainability rules.

Even if City is found guilty of some or all of the charges by the commission, the club can file an appeal, which will further delay the implementation of any potential sanctions.


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