Senior football figures have expressed the desire for Manchester City's punishment for breaching Premier League financial regulations to be concluded before the end of this season. Manchester City was found guilty of all charges relating to breaches of Premier League financial regulations between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons. The breaches included artificially inflating revenue by more than £900m through "sham" sponsorship deals.
Manchester City has repeatedly denied guilt and signaled an intent to lodge an appeal by the end of this week. Despite this, senior figures within football see no reason why the case cannot be concluded by the end of this season. One club official stated that it benefits everyone for this to be resolved as quickly as possible. The official also noted that there are risks if it's not resolved quickly, but those risks have been present throughout the process.
The Premier League's statement, formally announcing the guilty verdicts, said it wants the process to be "concluded as soon as possible". There are fears that allowing City to get to the end of the campaign without punishment could lead to uncertainty and farce, particularly if they were to win the title. The final decision rests in the hands of the independent commission, with the Premier League board - and City - able to suggest a suitable punishment before the panel makes its decision.
According to Premier League regulations, an appeal should conclude no more than 12 weeks after it is filed, and a decision should be made within 30 days of its end. Procedures can be hurried to meet certain deadlines, like the end of a league season. However, Ferran Soriano, Manchester City's chief executive, has suggested the case will run for a long time.
Manchester City cannot make a further appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas), but could potentially claim the process was not impartial at the High Court. Meanwhile, City's sponsor Etihad Airways has stated it is considering legal action against the Premier League. Etihad "categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication that suggests the airline has ever been involved in improper commercial arrangements".
Etihad also stated that it was given no opportunity to engage in a process that now reflects "adversely on the airline". The airline expressed deep concern over the way the matter has been communicated publicly, citing a lack of clarity and transparency. Etihad will seek legal counsel on the options and recourse available to protect its interests.
The Premier League declined to comment when contacted by BBC Sport. The case has sparked various reactions, with some expressing concerns over the potential impact on the league. Others have called for swift action to be taken. The outcome of the case and any subsequent appeal will have significant implications for Manchester City and the Premier League.
Key points
- Manchester City was found guilty of breaching Premier League financial regulations between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons.
- Senior football figures want the punishment to be concluded before the end of this season.
- Etihad Airways is considering legal action against the Premier League.
