Manchester City found guilty of major financial rule breaches, faces possible sanctions

A specially appointed independent commission ruled that Manchester City breached Premier League economic rules over nine seasons, chiefly by presenting owner-funded money as sponsor revenue and understating costs, inflating the club’s apparent finances by billions. The panel also found the club repeatedly obstructed the league’s investigation, confirming three of four alleged cooperation failures. Manchester City issued a statement rejecting the findings, expressing disappointment, and asserting it possesses extensive evidence to support its case.

The club announced it will lodge an appeal before the Friday deadline. The Premier League said the verdict is final pending the appeal and that sanctions will be decided in a separate confidential meeting. Potential penalties could range from fines and point deductions to possible exclusion from the league.