Man City Could Face Compensation Claims If Found Guilty of FFP Breaches
Manchester City could be required to pay compensation to some European clubs if they are found guilty of breaking the Premier League’s financial fair play (FFP) rules, according to reports.
An independent commission began hearing the 115 charges against Man City in September, and the hearing concluded in December. The Premier League launched its investigation into the club back in 2018, and after delays, charges were finally laid in February 2023, leading to the case being referred to an independent commission.
The charges against Man City include failing to accurately report financial information, such as the value of sponsorship deals, and not providing details about manager and player wages. The club is also accused of not following UEFA’s financial regulations and the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules (PSR). Additionally, they are accused of not co-operating with the league’s investigation. The charges cover every season from 2009-10 to 2022-23.
Man City denied all the charges when they were announced, stating that they welcomed the opportunity for an independent commission to review the evidence. The club expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved in their favour.
Manager Pep Guardiola recently said he expects a verdict in one month. He added: “In one month, I think there will be a verdict and a sentence. After that, we will see my opinion of what happened so far.”
Guardiola also defended the club, saying: “In the past five years, we are the last among the top six for net spend. Even after what we have spent this transfer window, we are behind Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and even Liverpool. The only reason why is we sell a lot in the last seasons.”
Football Insider reports that if Man City is found guilty, they could face compensation claims from European clubs who can prove they were financially harmed by the alleged breaches. Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Manchester United have already registered their interest in compensation, and other European clubs may follow suit.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness commented that despite the charges, Manchester City is maintaining its usual operations. He said: “They’ve spent a big number, about half the total number for the entire transfer window. I think there’s two things going on.
“Everyone, including Pep, has been surprised with the recent results. His plans, and the sporting directors’ plans for the squad, would have been for gradual rebuilding. They’ve had to do dramatic surgery quickly to strengthen the squad and salvage the rest of the season.
“There are untold riches ahead in the Champions League, if they can get through Real Madrid. Also, they’ve got to maintain business as usual with the lawsuit and the 115 charges. They’re going to carry
