League Chief Executive Unable to Influence Decision on Delayed City Charges, He Says
Manchester City, one of the most successful football clubs in England, is currently embroiled in a long-running investigation by the Premier League. The charges, which were first issued in February 2023, relate to alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial rules, spanning from 2009 to 2018.
The investigation has taken a significant turn, with a 12-week confidential hearing by an independent panel taking place behind closed doors from September 16 to December 6, 2024. Despite the conclusion of the hearing, as of August 2025, no verdict has been announced. Speculation suggests that a resolution to the case may only arrive by October 2025 at the earliest, with possible further delays if appeals occur.
The charges against Manchester City include allegations of failing to cooperate with the subsequent investigation, failing to provide full details of Roberto Mancini's pay for four seasons, and failing to provide full details of remuneration in player contracts for six seasons. The club has also been charged with failing to report accurate financial information for nine seasons.
Manchester City has vehemently denied all charges. The potential punishments could be significant, but expulsion from the Premier League, which would require a majority club vote, is not expected to be a part of the penalties.
The Premier League has maintained a strict confidentiality around the process and timing of the investigation. However, Premier League CEO Richard Masters has stated that the League has no influence over the independent panel’s decision timing, which is expected to take months due to the complexity and volume of evidence.
The ongoing investigation has not deterred Manchester City's success on the field. The club has won eight of their 10 top-flight league titles since 2012 and even managed to win the Champions League for the first time in 2023.
As the 2025/26 season gets underway, the city awaits the verdict of the independent panel. Regardless of the outcome, an appeal is likely by the losing side, adding months to the overall timeline. The saga continues, and the football world watches with bated breath.
[1] The Guardian. (2023, February 13). Manchester City charged with 115 financial misconduct breaches by Premier League. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/feb/13/manchester-city-charged-financial-misconduct-breaches-premier-league
[2] BBC Sport. (2024, December 7). Manchester City hearing concludes. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55800141
[3] Sky Sports. (2025, August 1). Manchester City: No verdict yet in Premier League financial misconduct case. Retrieved from https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/12361341/manchester-city-no-verdict-yet-in-premier-league-financial-misconduct-case
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