The Ultimate Lowdown on Manchester City’s Punishment if Charges Are Proven
Manchester City is facing a potentially dire fate as the 115 charges against them head to a hearing on Monday. If the Premier League champs are found guilty, a points deduction and hefty fine are the most likely outcomes. But what else could be in store for them? Let’s break it down.
The hearing, set to last around two months, will decide on City’s fate based on allegations of breaching profit and sustainability rules (PSR), failing to comply with UEFA regulations, including financial fair play (FFP), and more. All charges stem from leaked documents from 2009, which City deny, claiming they have "irrefutable evidence" to support their defense.
But what’s the punishment? A 30-point deduction could be on the table, as sources close to the case suggest. While relegation to the Championship might seem like a drastic outcome, it’s deemed less likely than a points deduction. Premier League chiefs are determined to impose a stiff punishment to serve as a deterrent for other clubs.
City’s owners and directors, however, are adamant their club has done nothing wrong. They’re determined to defend themselves with their might, which raises concerns over the potential legal bill for the Premier League, estimated to be in the region of tens of millions if City wins.
The Daily Mail recently reported that the league could be left with an estimated ‘tens of millions’ in legal fees if City wins the case, while officials attempted to force Everton to pay a £4.9m bill for a similar dispute. A commission and appeal board ruled that Everton was only liable for around a third of the fee, with the Premier League covering the remaining £3.2m.
So, what does it all mean? Well, if City are found guilty, they can expect a significant points deduction and a hefty fine. City’s owners and directors must be prepared to cough up for their legal battles, regardless of the outcome.
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