Punishment for Manchester City Expected This Season

Senior football officials expressed belief that Manchester City's punishment for breaching Premier League rules should be issued before the end of the current season. The Premier League had announced on September 29, 2026, that City was found guilty of all charges related to financial regulation violations spanning from the 2009-10 to the 2017-18 seasons. These violations included inflating revenue by over £900 million through dubious sponsorship agreements. City has consistently denied any wrongdoing and indicated plans to appeal this verdict by the end of the current week.

There are concerns that the appeal process, which has dragged on for three years since charges were first leveled against City, could extend even further. Nevertheless, prominent figures in football have conveyed to BBC Sport their optimism regarding a resolution by season's end. One anonymous club official stated, "It benefits everyone for this to be resolved as quickly as possible," expressing a hope that the case could conclude efficiently but correctly. "We all recognize the risks of a prolonged process," the official continued, noting that City has secured multiple league titles during this time.

Another source echoed this sentiment, asserting that the resolution should ideally occur before the season ends, while hoping for a quick turnaround on any appeal. The outcome ultimately depends on an independent commission, with the Premier League and Manchester City able to propose appropriate sanctions prior to the commission's decision.

An urgent desire exists among certain Premier League officials to finalize this case before the conclusion of the season, as failure to do so might create further complications and absurdities, particularly in the event of City's title win. Premier League regulations stipulate that appeals should not exceed 12 weeks following submission and should yield a decision within 30 days post-appeal.

While expediting procedures is possible to facilitate these timelines, Manchester City’s CEO, Ferran Soriano, warned that the case could extend significantly. The club lacks the option for a further appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) but might pursue claims regarding impartiality through the High Court. The Premier League has publicly stated its intention to resolve this matter swiftly.

In related developments, Manchester City's sponsor, Etihad Airways, announced it was contemplating legal action against the Premier League. The airline vehemently disputes any implication that it has participated in inappropriate commercial practices and criticized the Premier League's communication regarding the findings, which it claims has adversely affected its reputation despite not being directly named in prior reports. Etihad is seeking legal counsel to ensure its interests are protected amidst these proceedings.