British media: Manchester City s financial violations may not announce the preliminary ruling in October, which may disrupt the new season again

Sports 7:58pm, 31 July 2025 154
According to the Independent, according to club executives and football veterans, Manchester City's financial violations may be delayed until at least October before the preliminary ruling will be announced, and this storm may once again disrupt the new Premier League season.

In view of the handling cycle of similar cases, some club senior officials speculate that the ruling may be released during the second international match day window from October 4 to 18. Although the hearing ended in early December last year, the case continued to ferment until this summer, which means that the new season may face major variables such as points deductions again. Manchester City has always insisted that it is innocent.

Due to the sensitivity of the case, the investigation process is strictly confidential, and only the direct participants are aware of the specific progress. In response to alleged violations of fiscal regulations by Manchester City, the Freedom of Information Request document shows that the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi had discussed the case. Bloomberg also reported that UAE officials mentioned the matter during a meeting with British Foreign Secretary David Rami in 2024, but Rami said it falls under the jurisdiction of the Premier League.

Sources who understand the investigation predict that the ruling will be announced between September and October, and some people believe that the international match day window will be selected. The preliminary ruling of the transaction plan of Manchester City's related parties was announced on the first day of the FIFA competition window opening on October 7, 2024. This storm that began with the "football decryption" incident in November 2018 and eventually led to the Premier League filing more than 100 accusations in February 2023. Regardless of the result, it is regarded as a historic moment in the Premier League and even the entire football community.

Premier League insiders pointed out that the case had another impact, that is, it hindered the normal governance process. Clubs are currently unwilling to promote or even propose any major reforms in the operation of the event, believing that the outcome of the case may subvert the existing situation. There are also differences among the clubs on how to punish if the most serious allegations are established. A few clubs advocate direct removal from Manchester City, but this requires special shareholder votes supported by 15 clubs, which is extremely unlikely. More clubs tend to implement penalties as soon as possible to end the storm, believing that long-term delays are hurting the reputation of the Premier League. However, other executives see this as Manchester City's delay tactics, as stakeholders may develop fatigue as the procedures are prolonged.

Another difference is that if it is determined whether the violation should be suspended, that is, should Manchester City be punished immediately or be executed after the appeal is completed. A club executive revealed to the Independent that due to the procedural phase and potential appeal, there may not be any substantial impact after the preliminary ruling or even within a year. Manchester City is currently confident in the elimination of the charges.