Senior football figures have indicated to BBC Sport that Manchester City's punishment for breaching Premier League financial regulations should be determined before the end of the current season. The Premier League announced on Tuesday that City had been found guilty of all charges related to violations occurring between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons. These included allegations of inflating revenue by over £900 million through "sham" sponsorship agreements.
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Manchester City has consistently denied these charges, announcing plans to appeal by the end of the week. While there have been concerns regarding a prolonged process, some within the football community believe the case can be resolved before the season concludes. One anonymous club official stated that swift resolution would be beneficial, adding that while they instinctively believed it would happen, the process must be conducted correctly.
Another source expressed hope that any appeal process would be expedited, noting that the final decision lies with an independent commission, which could receive recommendations for punishment from both the Premier League board and Manchester City.
There is growing urgency to conclude the case by the end of the season, as some fear that allowing City to proceed without punishment could create uncertainty, particularly if they were to claim the league title.
The Premier League’s regulations stipulate that an appeal should be settled within 12 weeks after it is filed, with a final decision expected within 30 days thereafter. While procedures can be adjusted to meet season deadlines, City’s chief executive, Ferran Soriano, has suggested that the case may extend over a longer period.
Manchester City will not be able to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), although they might pursue a claim of partiality at the High Court. Following the Premier League's official statement of guilty verdicts, City’s main sponsor, Etihad Airways, announced it is contemplating legal action against the league. The airline stated it "categorically rejects" any implications of improper commercial conduct, expressing concern over the way the findings have been communicated and the potential damage to its reputation. Etihad has been the club's sponsor since 2009 and voiced frustration over not being allowed to participate in the process.
The Premier League declined to comment when approached by BBC Sport.