Several Premier League clubs are advocating for Manchester City to face both retrospective punishments and future sanctions for extensive financial rule violations, according to sources cited by BBC Sport. An independent commission found City guilty of breaching the Premier League's financial regulations during the 2009-10 to 2017-18 seasons. The club is currently appealing the verdict, while the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) is reviewing the findings for any potential misconduct.
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There is a consensus among some club executives that if City's appeal fails, penalties should not only address the period of rule-breaking but also impose limits on the club's future operations. At least four clubs argue that a single points deduction leading to relegation would be an inadequate response to what they view as serious wrongdoing. One senior club source suggested that City should forfeit their titles, emphasizing that the legitimacy of the Premier League would be undermined if City retained their eight major trophies earned during the violation period. However, BBC Sport noted varying opinions on this issue, with some clubs showing little appetite for title stripping.
Concerns have also been expressed about the effectiveness of sanctions that apply to just one season, as this could allow City to return to the Premier League quickly. Some executives believe any points deduction should be spread across multiple seasons, while transfer bans extending through several windows could hinder City’s ability to regain their top-flight status promptly. One club source remarked that it would be "bizarre" if City were allowed to navigate the January transfer window during ongoing proceedings.
Several clubs have reported feeling "in the dark" regarding the Premier League's handling of the situation, especially about the timing of the appeal and forthcoming sanctions. Nevertheless, sources indicate a sense of empathy towards the Premier League given the complexity of the case.
As part of potential financial reparations, one idea proposed involves a "tariff-based system" that would retroactively alter City’s previous league positions via points deductions, compensating rival clubs based on adjusted standings.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca is scheduled to address his players after their return from international duty on Thursday, ahead of their match against Liverpool on Sunday at 16:30 BST—marking their first game since the verdict announcement. Merseyside Police has acknowledged inquiries related to the match and confirmed that an appropriate policing operation will be in place, although Liverpool sources stated it is "business as usual" with no additional measures planned.