Premier League seeks resolution of Manchester City financial case this season

The Premier League wants Manchester City’s financial regulations case resolved before the end of the season, according to senior football figures who spoke to BBC Sport. The case has already taken three years since City were charged, raising concern that any punishment could be delayed further. Manchester City were found guilty of all charges relating to alleged breaches between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons.

The allegations included claims that the club artificially inflated revenue by more than £900m through sponsorship arrangements. City have consistently denied the allegations and are expected to appeal the guilty verdict. One club official told BBC Sport that a prompt resolution would benefit everyone, while another source said the process should be completed before the campaign ends and hoped any appeal could be handled quickly.

The final decision on the sanction rests with an independent commission. The Premier League and City can both make submissions on what they consider an appropriate punishment before the commission reaches its decision. Pressure has increased because City could complete another season, potentially challenging for or winning the Premier League title, without a punishment being determined.

That prospect could create uncertainty over the competition’s outcome and the consequences for the club. Premier League rules state that an appeal should normally be completed within 12 weeks of being filed, followed by a decision within 30 days. It is not clear whether those provisions will apply directly to City’s case.

City chief executive Ferran Soriano has previously suggested the process could continue for a considerable period. City cannot appeal further to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, although the club could potentially challenge the process at the High Court on grounds related to impartiality. The Premier League said it wanted the case concluded as soon as possible.