Man City’s 114 violations: This could continue

It is the headline story of this season in English football.

Manchester City were found guilty of 114 of 115 counts of breaching Premier League financial rules.

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As the “BBC” writes in a report, there are now four possible scenarios for what will happen next.

First scenario: Initially no penalty

Since Manchester City rejected the allegations, a criminal hearing in the case would have to take place before an independent committee. According to BBC information, it could take months before this happens.

At a possible hearing, all sorts of punishments would be on the table: fines, point deductions and even forced relegation.

If the “Skyblues” admitted their guilt, as Chelsea did at the beginning of the year, they could negotiate the sanctions with the Premier League itself. In recent years, City has consistently denied the allegations.

Second scenario: penalty this season, but with an appeal

If there is a points deduction, this would normally take effect immediately – subject to an objection from Manchester City.

If the Premier League stays true to the hard line of recent years, the deduction could even be so high that it effectively means forced relegation. Everton were deducted six points and Nottingham four. Man City’s violations significantly exceed those of Everton and Forest. In the league alone, the “Cityzens” are confronted with seven PSR violations. There are also five in connection with UEFA competitions.

As an alternative to a points deduction, exclusion from PL membership and a high fine would also be possible. In any case, Manchester City would have 14 days to lodge an objection. However, it is currently unclear whether this period has already begun.

Even in the event of an objection, a points deduction would take effect immediately. There is still a possibility – albeit a small one – that this will wait until after the appeal process has been completed.

Third scenario: It happens quickly

If the league and the other PL clubs have their way, this is definitely the favored scenario. It would probably be in the interests of the integrity of the Premier League for the appeal to be heard quickly and the full decision to be announced quickly.

In principle, the Premier League does not want the matter to drag on into the last few months of the season. Manchester City could of course also be successful with the appeal – as they did in 2020 when they avoided a two-year CL ban.

Unlike back then, the case cannot be taken to CAS.

Fourth scenario: Despite the result, the case continues

Even if the case is concluded quickly, the matter could continue afterwards. PL clubs are already seeking advice about possible claims for damages from ManCity in connection with the proceedings.

According to the BBC, this could even be organized centrally by the league. The Premier League rules allow clubs the opportunity to assert legal claims for damages against each other. Everton were obliged to pay £35m to Burnley following PSR breaches. Burnley argued that the violations had reduced their own chances of staying in the league.

It is currently unclear whether the claims can become statute-barred. In any case, it is “not mentioned” in the league’s traditional rules, explains Kieran Maguire, professor of football finance at the University of Liverpool, to the BBC.

Almost every PL club that finished behind ManCity in the respective seasons could claim damages. It’s about the bonuses for the respective table position, Champions League bonuses, lost ticket and sponsorship income.