Manchester City’s most significant hurdle in their pursuit of the Premier League title is about to unfold on Monday. Last February, the Premier League club faced 115 charges relating to breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations occurring between 2009 and 2018. Now, the court proceedings concerning this ongoing dispute are set to commence, although a verdict may still be some time away.

Since Sheikh Mansour’s Abu Dhabi United Group acquired the club in 2008, Manchester City has claimed one Champions League, eight Premier League titles, six League Cups, and three FA Cups. However, there remains a threat looming over these titles with these current charges.

The date when Manchester City’s fate will be revealed!

Manchester City is no doubt facing serious accusations. In addition to alleged breaches of FFP regulations, the club has been charged with failing to cooperate with the league authorities by not supplying necessary documents and information since the investigation started in 2018. Additionally, an independent commission will conduct the hearing for this case, with three judges having been appointed by the Premier League Judicial Panel’s independent chair.

The proceedings will be private and are anticipated to last approximately ten weeks before a verdict is reached. Although an exact date for the announcement has yet to be specified, it is expected that fans will learn about their club’s future sometime in early 2025—likely around mid-season or prior to the conclusion of the 2024-25 season.

Should guilt be established, it could lead to severe repercussions for the Cityzens, including substantial fines and potential point deductions similar to those faced by Everton and Nottingham Forest. There also lies a chance of them, being relegated from the Premier League down to the EFL Championship. We still have to wait until next year for the final decision, but in the meantime, let’s examine what Manchester City has to say regarding the situation.

Pep Guardiola’s statement ahead of the hearing

The club has consistently maintained its innocence against the allegations. Earlier this year, Manchester City even initiated legal proceedings against the Premier League concerning new regulations. This move resulted in considerable backlash and intensified negative perceptions from those already criticizing them over the 115 charges they face. As the hearing approaches, Pep Guardiola, the club’s manager, shared his thoughts on the matter.

The Spanish manager expressed anticipation for both the hearing and its outcome. In a recent interview, he remarked, “It starts soon and then (hopefully) finishes soon.” He added, “An independent panel will decide and I am looking forward to the decision… Everyone is innocent until proven guilty.”

It will be intriguing to see how this lengthy case concludes and where Manchester City stands following the final ruling.