The Premier League and Manchester City have agreed on a date for the independent panel that will rule on the 115 allegations brought against the reigning champions.
City was charged earlier this year following a five-year probe into alleged financial regulations violations. Since the allegations were filed in February, both the Premier League and City have remained tight-lipped about the situation.
According to the Daily Mail, a hearing date for the lawsuit has been set for late autumn 2024. A decision is unlikely until the end of next season, in the summer of 2025, when manager Pep Guardiola’s contract is set to expire.
It is believed that witness statements are presently being taken in preparation for the trial next year. Delays could, of course, push out the present trial date, and it is expected that appeals will be filed when the verdict is given.
City is accused of violating 115 regulations throughout the span of 14 seasons, beginning with the 2009/2010 season. They include allegations of financial mismanagement and a failure to cooperate with the Premier League’s inquiry.
The champions have denied any wrongdoing, and manager Pep Guardiola has recently lashed out at those who want City punished. He also stated that he would continue to work at the Etihad Stadium even if City were found guilty of the accusations.
“We are innocent until proven guilty,” he remarked prior to last weekend’s tie with Liverpool. “I know the people want it [punishment for the city].” I’m aware of it. I’ll wait and see, and after the sentence is completed, we’ll return here and explain.
Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has stated that he will remain at the club even if they are found guilty.
“I will not think about my future if it depends on whether I am here or in League One.” We have a better chance of staying in League One than in the Champions League.”
In February, the Premier League issued an inflammatory statement outlining the full list of complaints. The League’s leaders urged that the ensuing commission be completely independent.
“In accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.1, the Premier League confirms that it has today referred a number of alleged breaches of the Premier League Rules by Manchester City Football Club (Club) to a Commission under Premier League Rule W.3.4,” according to a press release.
“Commissions are separate from the Premier League and its member clubs.” In accordance with Premier League Rules W.19, W.20, and W.26, the members of the Commission will be nominated by the independent Chair of the Premier League Judicial Panel.
“The proceedings before the Commission will be confidential and heard in private, in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.” The Commission’s final award will be published on the Premier League website in accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.2.
“In accordance with Premier League Rule W.82.1, this confirmation is made.” “Until further notice, the Premier League will make no further comment on this matter.”
City responded instantly with an extraordinary statement of their own. The reigning champions maintained they were taken aback by the claims leveled against them.
“Manchester City FC is surprised by the issuing of these alleged breaches of the Premier League Rules, particularly given the extensive engagement and vast amount of detailed materials that the EPL has been provided with,” the statement went on to say.
“The Club welcomes an independent Commission’s review of this matter in order to consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position.” As a result, we look forward to putting this matter to bed once and for all.”
Everton received a 10-point deduction from the Premier League after being found guilty of violating profit and sustainability regulations, bringing the City issue back into the spotlight.
While numerous pundits have requested that the issue be resolved as soon as possible, it appears that City’s culpability will be determined over a considerable period of time.