Manchester City
Manchester City 130 charges verdict expected THIS MONTH as Premier League braces for landmark decision
Last Updated on 9 October 2025
The Premier League is on edge. After years of investigations, hearings and legal battles, the verdict on Manchester City’s 130 alleged breaches of financial rules is finally expected before the end of this month.
Senior figures across English football are said to be “bracing themselves” for what could be one of the most significant rulings in Premier League history.
The hearing into Manchester City’s charges, which they strongly deny, took place between September and December 2024, and insiders believe a decision is imminent.
Inside the Manchester City charges timeline
The Manchester City charges saga has been one of the most explosive and drawn-out stories in modern English football.
It began in December 2018, when the Premier League quietly launched an investigation into the club’s finances. This was done following a series of leaked documents published by German outlet Der Spiegel. These leaks alleged that Manchester City had artificially inflated sponsorship deals to get around financial regulations.
After a four-year investigation, the Premier League announced in February 2023 that the club had been charged with 115 alleged breaches of financial rules. This number has since been clarified and increased to 130 charges.
The allegations span almost a decade, between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons and covers sponsorship revenues, payments to managers and players, and failure to cooperate with investigators.
The charges span an era of domination by Manchester City
The case was then referred to an independent commission, which heard the matter over a 12-week period between September and December 2024. During this time, the Premier League presented its evidence against the club, while Manchester City maintained their innocence.
The club officials and representatives insisted they have “a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence” to clear their name.
City’s period of alleged rule-breaking coincides with their most dominant era in football history. After the Abu Dhabi United Group’s takeover in 2008, they won:
- Eight Premier League titles
- Three FA Cups
- Six League Cups
- The UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup
- The 2023 Champions League
The Premier League’s handling of the Manchester City charges has been under intense scrutiny. Particularly because the process has taken years to reach this stage. Many clubs and fans have grown increasingly frustrated by the lack of updates.
However, there is light at the end of tunnel and this month could finally bring a decisive verdict, according to The Independent.
Senior figures across the league are said to be “bracing themselves” for the outcome. This landmark decision is expected to shape the future of financial regulation in English football. If Manchester City are found guilty, it would be an unprecedented moment in Premier League history.
What could happen next in the Manchester City charges case: timeline and possible scenarios
If the club is found guilty, the punishment could range from hefty fines and points deductions. But in the most severe case, City could face expulsion from the Premier League.
However, this is far from a quick process. Even after a verdict, City would almost certainly appeal, likely dragging the legal battle into 2026. The Premier League has made it clear that it wants to bring this saga to a conclusion, but City have repeatedly said they possess “irrefutable evidence” to clear their name.
Pep Guardiola maintains Manchester City’s innocence
Throughout the Manchester City charges saga, Pep Guardiola has remained unwavering in his belief that the club is innocent.
The hearing into the allegations took place between September and December 2024. However, with the verdict yet to be announced, Guardiola has made it clear he trusts the independent panel to deliver a fair decision.
Speaking earlier this year, as covered by Goal.com, Guardiola said: “In one month, I think there will be a verdict and a sentence. After that, we will see my opinion of what happened so far.”
The City boss also addressed widespread calls for punishment from rival clubs, even aligning briefly with one of the club’s loudest critics, La Liga president Javier Tebas.
“For the first time I agree with Tebas,” Guardiola admitted. “All the Premier League teams want us to be sanctioned, that is for sure. But that’s why I say to Mr. Tebas and the Premier League teams, wait for the independent panel. Justice is there in a modern democracy.”
