Manchester City is facing a serious threat of relegation from the Premier League as the hearing into 115 alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play regulations is set to begin in early September.
The charges, dating back to 2009, have cast a shadow over the club, which has enjoyed immense success under Pep Guardiola, winning 15 major trophies since his appointment in 2016.
The potential consequences for Man City are severe, with journalist Martyn Ziegler reporting that if the most serious charges are proven, the club could face relegation or a significant points deduction.
This situation follows in the footsteps of recent penalties imposed on other clubs, such as Everton and Nottingham Forest, who were docked points for similar but less complex breaches.
The hearing is expected to last over 10 weeks, with a verdict anticipated in early January 2024. Meanwhile, City has launched its own legal case against the Premier League concerning associated party transaction rules, which is set to be heard within the next fortnight.
Amidst the ongoing legal battles, the odds of Man City being relegated this season have been slashed from 100/1 to 28/1, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Despite the uncertainty, Manchester City captain Kyle Walker remains focused on the team’s on-field performance. Walker expressed confidence in City’s ability to secure a fifth consecutive Premier League title.
“I wouldn’t say it’s an ego, but we’ve done this now four times in a row – this is our trophy to lose,” Walker said.
“For us to go and do four in a row off the back of a Treble was a great achievement. Now, why can’t we go and do five in a row? That’s the motivation we have to create from us as a group of players, from me as a captain,” he added.
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