Manchester City found guilty of 114 EPL financial breaches

Manchester City have been found guilty of 114 out of 115 charges brought against the club for alleged breaches of English Premier League financial regulations, according to a report by The Athletic.

The report said an independent panel reached the verdict after an eight-year process, although no sanction has yet been determined.

Manchester City, which is expected to appeal the decision, said the case remained ongoing and subject to confidentiality.

“As such, Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023,” the club said.

“The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis that the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence.”

The Premier League brought the case against City in 2023 over alleged breaches spanning the 2009/10 to 2017/18 seasons.

The charges included allegations that the club failed to provide accurate financial information and details concerning payments to players and coaches, as well as breaches of the league’s financial sustainability regulations.

The period under investigation began about two years after the Abu Dhabi United Group acquired the club in 2008.

Since the takeover, City have won eight Premier League titles, four FA Cups, seven League Cups and one UEFA Champions League title.

The Athletic report said the sanctions have yet to be determined. Potential consequences could include a points deduction or other disciplinary measures, while the most severe outcomes could affect the club’s participation in the Premier League.

Everton and Nottingham Forest were previously handed points deductions during the 2023/24 season for breaches of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.

The outcome of the City case could also have implications for other clubs if they pursue claims relating to titles or compensation connected to the alleged breaches.

The club’s appeal is expected to form the next stage of the proceedings, with the final disciplinary outcome yet to be announced.