Manchester City punishment could be decided before season ends

Manchester City’s punishment for breaching Premier League financial rules could be handed down before the end of this season, senior football figures have told BBC Sport. The Premier League said on Tuesday that City were found guilty on all charges related to breaches of its regulations between 2009-10 and 2017-18.

The allegations include artificially inflating revenue by more than £900m through “sham” sponsorship deals. City have repeatedly denied wrongdoing and indicated they intend to lodge an appeal by the end of this week.

Aiming to avoid delays

Sources speaking to the outlet believe there is no reason the case cannot be concluded by the end of the campaign, and they hope any appeal can be “compressed”. The final call rests with an independent commission, with the Premier League and City able to suggest a suitable punishment before the panel makes its decision.

As a reference point, league regulations say an appeal should finish no more than 12 weeks after it is filed, and a decision should be made within 30 days of its conclusion. Etihad Airways, City’s main sponsor since 2009, meanwhile says it is considering legal action, rejecting any implication that the airline was involved in improper commercial arrangements.