Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that the verdict on the club’s 115 alleged breaches of Premier League regulations could be announced between February and March 2025. The hearing, considered one of the most significant cases in sports law, concluded on December 9, leaving the footballing world awaiting the outcome.
The backdrop to these allegations comes during a season of growing unease amongst Manchester City fans. The club’s inconsistent form across all competitions has raised concerns, and the impending verdict adds further uncertainty to their future. Guardiola, speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of their December 21 clash with Aston Villa, acknowledged the looming decision but emphasised that it remains external to his team’s immediate focus.
“It’s going to happen in the winter time. I don’t know what’s going to happen. I know people are expecting that but I don’t know. In February, March, [maybe] will be the sentence,” Guardiola said.
“We’re in a difficult situation, but we will continue to focus on what we can control – our performance on the field…Our priority remains winning matches and maintaining our standards, regardless of the external pressures we face,” he added.
City’s 115 charges include 80 alleged breaches related to financial misrepresentation and 35 for failing to cooperate with investigations. These allegations span the period from 2009 to 2018, accusing the club of providing inaccurate financial disclosures regarding sponsorship revenues and salaries. If found guilty, the reigning Premier League champions could face severe repercussions, including points deductions or even relegation to the Championship.
Manchester City has consistently denied the allegations and is committed to defending its reputation. The club argues that its rise to prominence over the past decade was built on robust management, innovative strategies, and substantial investment from its ownership group. However, if the independent panel finds City guilty, it could severely tarnish the club’s legacy.
City’s case aligns with a broader trend of financial scrutiny in English football. Recently, Everton faced a points deduction for breaching financial sustainability rules, while Nottingham Forest also came under investigation for irregularities. The Premier League’s increased vigilance reflects its commitment to ensuring financial fairness within its framework.
As the footballing world anticipates the verdict, the implications could redefine City’s standing in the sport. From their meteoric rise to being a dominant European powerhouse under Guardiola, their legacy now hangs in the balance. Regardless of the outcome, this case serves as a critical moment in the history of financial governance within football.
