The Athletic and The Times reported that the club were found guilty on all but one of the charges originally filed in February 2023. City are expected to appeal the decision. Both the Premier League and the club have remained largely silent, with the league describing the process as confidential and City stating that the inquiry “remains ongoing.”
The case has dominated English football for years. Below is a full timeline of key developments:
February 6, 2023
The Premier League refers Manchester City to an independent commission over more than 100 alleged breaches. These included failing to provide accurate financial information, breaches of Financial Fair Play and profitability and sustainability rules, failure to cooperate with investigations, and not properly reporting contracts.
February 10, 2023
Manager Pep Guardiola insists the club has been “condemned” before any hearing, comparing the situation to previous UEFA charges that were later largely dismissed or time-barred by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
May 2023 – June 2023
Guardiola repeatedly calls for a swift resolution. City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak expresses frustration that the case is overshadowing the team’s on-pitch success, including their historic treble.
September 2024 – December 2024
The formal hearing before an independent three-judge commission begins and lasts approximately 10 weeks. A separate arbitration panel issues a mixed ruling on Associated Party Transactions (sponsorship deals).
2025
Delays continue. Guardiola repeatedly asks for clarity while the club continues to compete at the highest level. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters insists the process is independent and cannot be rushed.
May – June 2026
Guardiola announces he will leave at the end of the 2025-26 season. Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is appointed as his successor.
August 2026
Masters acknowledges growing frustration over the length of the process.
September 25, 2026
Reports emerge that City have been found guilty of almost all 115 charges. The club is expected to lodge an appeal.
The verdict, if confirmed, could lead to significant sanctions, ranging from heavy fines to points deductions or other sporting penalties. Any appeal process is likely to extend the case further, meaning a final resolution may still be months away.
The outcome represents one of the most significant moments in Premier League history and will have major implications for financial regulation in English football.