The long-awaited independent hearing into Manchester City's alleged 115 breaches of Premier League financial regulations officially began on Monday. Dubbed by British media as the "sports trial of the century," the hearing is expected to last around two months, with a final verdict, including any appeals, anticipated by the end of the 2024-25 season.
The charges, which date back to the period between 2009 and 2018, were referred to an independent commission in February 2023. Manchester City, winners of a record four consecutive English titles, have consistently denied any wrongdoing.
If found guilty of any of the charges, the club could face severe penalties, including hefty fines, points deductions, or even relegation from the Premier League. Such an outcome could cast a shadow over what has been one of the most successful eras in English football history. Since being taken over by Sheikh Mansour's Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008, City have won eight Premier League titles, a Champions League, three FA Cups, six League Cups, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the hearing, City manager Pep Guardiola reiterated his confidence in the club's innocence, stating: "It starts soon and then hopefully finishes soon. An independent panel will decide, and I am looking forward to the decision. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty."
The charges against City include providing inaccurate financial information, failing to disclose full details of player and manager remuneration, breaches of both Premier League and UEFA financial fair play rules, and failing to cooperate with investigations.
No comments:
Post a Comment