Manchester City are set to face the music sooner than expected as their hearing on 115 alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations has reportedly been moved forward to next month.
Originally scheduled for November, the independent commission will now convene in mid-to-late September, with a verdict anticipated by early 2025 according to The Times.
The decision to accelerate the hearing follows a separate legal battle initiated by City against the Premier League’s rules on sponsorship and revenue deals with businesses linked to club owners.
The outcome of this case, expected in the next two weeks, has paved the way for the hearing to commence earlier, barring any additional legal delays.
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What will punishment could Man City face, if found guilty?
Manchester City, owned by the City Football Group (CFG), a holding company with the majority stake owned by the Abu Dhabi United Group, have been accused of violating regulations and financial rules for a period stretching from 2009 to 2023.
The club has denied all charges, but the stakes are high. If found guilty, City could face severe penalties, including points deductions and even the possibility of relegation from the Premier League.
As the hearing approaches, both City and the Premier League have remained tight-lipped, with no official comments from either side. The football world waits anxiously to see how this high-stakes drama will unfold.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola's City will now be focused on building on their Community Shield win and starting their Premier League campaign against Chelsea on a positive note this Sunday.
