The highly anticipated hearing regarding 115 charges against Manchester City is set to begin on Monday, which could have significant consequences for the reigning Premier League champions.
According to a report by Sky Sports on Thursday, an independent commission will commence the case next week.
Manchester City faces accusations of breaching 80 financial rules between 2009 and 2018, along with an additional 35 charges related to a lack of cooperation with the Premier League’s investigation.
Since Sheikh Mansour, a member of the United Arab Emirates royal family, took over the club in 2008, City has risen to become a dominant force in English football. The team has secured eight of the last 13 Premier League titles, including a record four consecutive league titles in the last four seasons. Additionally, City won the Champions League for the first time in 2023.
However, these accomplishments have been overshadowed by the financial charges, often referenced by rival fans. The club has maintained its innocence throughout and has expressed its determination to clear its name.
"Of course, it's frustrating. I think the reference is always frustrating," said City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak earlier this year. "I can feel, of course, for our fan base, for everyone associated with the club, to have these charges constantly referenced."
The Premier League initially filed the charges in February 2023, but the case has been delayed, awaiting proceedings before an independent commission.
If found guilty, Manchester City could face severe penalties, including a points deduction or even expulsion from the Premier League. Last season, Everton and Nottingham Forest both received points deductions for breaching the league’s profit and sustainability regulations.
The charges against City allege the club provided inaccurate financial details, including information on sponsorship revenues and salary data for both managers and players during the 2009-2018 period. Other charges involve violations of financial sustainability rules enforced by both UEFA and the Premier League.
The hearing is expected to last at least two months, with a final ruling unlikely to be delivered before 2025. If the commission finds the club guilty on some or all counts, City would likely appeal the decision, which could further delay any potential sanctions.
