Manchester City, the champions of the Premier League, and their competitors Chelsea have been alerted that they risk being expelled from the Premier League if it’s proven they violated Financial Fair Play regulations. Manchester City faces 115 charges, and their trial is scheduled for the autumn. Chelsea is also under scrutiny for excessive spending and might face issues unless they complete significant player sales this summer. The commission that recently deducted four points from Nottingham Forest for breaking financial regulations stated in their 52-page report that the penalties for such infractions could range “from a warning through to expulsion from the Premier League.”
The experts on the commission, Robert Glancy KC, sports law specialist Mark Hovell, and accountancy expert Steve Holt, wrote, “Available punishments range from a warning through to expulsion from the Premier League.” They further clarified that for “minor” breaches of the rules, it would be up to other commissions to decide whether a points deduction is “necessary, appropriate or proportionate.” However, they noted, “But if the breach is properly described as ‘major’ then it may be the case that even a very severe sanction such as expulsion is more appropriate.”
The possibility of severe penalties has led to speculation by some, including former Liverpool defender and TV pundit Jamie Carragher and boxer Tony Bellew, an Everton fan. Carragher has suggested that Manchester City might “end up in the National League North,” while Bellew has labeled the situation “a disgrace” and speculated that the “Cityzens” could be relegated to the Conference.
Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has stood by his club, asserting they are innocent of the charges. Guardiola has vowed to remain with the team, stating, “even if the club are sanctioned and relegated to League One.” There are whispers that Manchester City could also lose their trophies if found guilty, yet they continue to chase additional silverware this season as they contend for the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League titles.
Read Also: Blue Card in Football: Unnecessary Complication or Urgent Necessity