Although the hearing ended more than a month ago, the Etihad club still do not know if they will face sanctions for the alleged violations of the rules in the nine-year period, from 2009 to 2018, writes Goal.com.
The hearing on the alleged irregularities began in September 2024 and lasted ten weeks, but the outcome is still unknown. The length of the process caused numerous criticisms. While waiting for the decision, the public is increasingly speculating about the possible punishments. There is talk of stripping the title, drastically deducting points and even kicking them out of the league if City are found guilty.
The club broke its silence on its financial report released this week.
It says:
“At the date of publication of these reports, the independent committee is still in the process of considering the matter. Based on their assessment of the Group’s prospects and viability, the directors confirm that they have a reasonable expectation that the Group will be able to continue as a going concern and meet its obligations as they fall due within 12 months after the approval of these financial statements. Consequently, the financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.”
Many football fans believe that the decision is late. City manager Pep Guardiola said back in February that he expected a “verdict and sentence” within a month, and recent rumors suggested that news could come during the international break in November.
Manchester City’s former financial adviser, Stefan Borson, now claims the verdict could be announced before Christmas. “I think Simon Jordan thinks it will be out next year, I think it could still be out before Christmas. The decision has been imminent for a while, there’s not much I can do about it. It doesn’t take that long,” he told talkSPORT.
The announcement of the verdict will not mark the end of this long-running story. Manchester City is expected to appeal any unfavorable decision and could seek damages if they win in court. Both scenarios will lead to further legal battles and delays. On the other hand, other clubs could ask for compensation if City is sanctioned, reports Index.hr.
Lawyer Yasin Patel explained to BBC Sport what to expect: “Whatever comes of it, I’m afraid it’s not the end of the title race for either side here. It’s a two-horse race that’s going to continue. Whatever the verdict is, I wouldn’t think it’s the end. I’d appeal, whether I was on one side or the other.”
(Vijesti.ba)
