In their Financial Fair Play (FFP) case, Manchester City has been given a clear warning about possible consequences. According to experts, a guilty conviction may result in a points deduction of between 60 and 100 points. This comes after the club’s independent hearing on 115 charges of financial mismanagement was completed.
As the Premier League champions await the decision, they may face a number of punishments, such as transfer restrictions, points penalties, or even league ejection. However, Everton and Nottingham Forest were given a four-point deduction and a six-point deduction, respectively, for violating the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). The penalties, however, are anticipated to be even harsher if City is found to have violated the FFP.
Kieran Maguire, a specialist in football finance, emphasized the variations in the instances’ levels of severity. He pointed out that Manchester City is accused of corporate fraud, which would be considered a severe infraction, whereas Everton and Nottingham Forest were charged with “minor breaches.” If convicted, the penalty will probably be far more severe than what the other clubs received.
PL champions told punishment will be ‘far harsher’ than Everton
In 2023–24, Everton and Nottingham Forest were docked points for violating the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), setting precedents in the process. In the event the City is found to have violated Financial Fair Play rules, the consequences will be much more severe.
This is not the first time the defending Premier League champions have been warned to expect a harsh penalty. The Etihad Stadium is facing at least 115 allegations, and an independent hearing into alleged financial misconduct is currently underway.
A significant point deduction would cause City to drop down the Premier League standings, but they are still vying for a top-four finish this season and are still in the running for the FA Cup and Champions League. The Blues are anticipated to contest any penalties because they have consistently insisted on their innocence.
