Two years later: The "Longer Than Expected" timeline behind Man City's 115 charges

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has acknowledged that reaching a final verdict regarding the financial charges levelled against Manchester City has taken "longer than expected" while reaffirming that proceedings will remain strictly confidential until a formal ruling is reached.

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Confidentiality maintained amid growing frustration

Speaking to Sky News during the official launch event for the 2026 /27 Premier League campaign, Masters addressed the prolonged timeline surrounding the landmark case which has cast a shadow over English football for several seasons.

"There is nothing I can add at the moment.. Our rules are very clear on this matter and I must maintain confidentiality on everything until we are ready to issue the decision and announce it clearly" Masters stated.

Addressing the public impatience surrounding the case, Masters conceded:

"I cannot provide any updates regarding timing or the progress of proceedings, the only path available to us is to let the legal process run its natural course. I fully understand the frustration that exists, it has indeed taken longer than expected"

When asked whether he felt frustrated or angry by the extended deliberations, the Premier League chief dismissed the notion.

"Of course not.. I have stated previously that the commission needs adequate time and space to carry out its work. Ultimately, the Premier League's role is confined to presenting the charges, when sufficient evidence exists, before an independent commission to enable them to establish the truth and that is not something that should be constrained by how long it takes to reach that truth" Masters responded.

Background to the case and the 2024 hearings

The roots of the dispute date back to charges brought by the Premier League alleging that Manchester City breached financial regulations across a nine season period between 2009 and 2018, an era during which the club secured three Premier League titles.

The club has consistently and categorically denied all wrongdoing.

The allegations primarily center on claims that Manchester City failed to provide accurate financial information regarding revenue and operating costs, alongside allegations of non cooperation with the league's investigative inquiries.

Both parties presented their cases during a 12 week hearing before an independent three member panel between September & December 2024.

However, despite the conclusion of formal hearings nearly two years ago, a final written determination has yet to be published.

The independent panel will continue its closed door deliberations until its comprehensive written findings are finalised.

Once delivered, the decision will be communicated simultaneously to Manchester City and the Premier League before being published in full.

Both parties will retain the right to review the findings and explore potential appeal mechanisms depending on the scope and nature of the panel's ruling.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Manchester City

English Premier League