Manchester City’s ongoing Financial Fair Play (FFP) case has taken a surprising turn. The club, charged with over 100 breaches of financial regulations between 2009 and 2018, has now accused the Premier League of favoring other clubs, including Arsenal, Everton, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Leicester City.
In February 2023, Manchester City were charged with 115 alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules, which have since increased to 130. The club denies all accusations and has been involved in a lengthy legal battle. The hearing concluded between September and December last year, with a verdict expected soon.
Manchester City claim that the Premier League’s current rules unfairly benefit rival clubs by not scrutinizing shareholder loans as closely as sponsorship deals linked to club owners. City argues that these loans create a competitive imbalance and have allowed Arsenal, Everton, Brighton, and Leicester to gain an unfair advantage.
The specific allegations made by Manchester City against rival clubs:
- Arsenal: Received £259 million in shareholder loans during the 2022-23 season.
- Everton: Received £450 million.
- Brighton: Received £406.5 million in the previous campaign.
- Leicester: Received £265 million.
Manchester City have challenged the Premier League’s Associated Party Transaction (APT) regulations, which were deemed unenforceable by a tribunal. They are pushing for the reinstatement of pre-2021 regulations, arguing that the current rules lack transparency and favor certain clubs.
While Manchester City are confident they will avoid severe penalties like a transfer ban or stripping of titles, they cannot rule out a points deduction. Rival fans have suggested significant penalties if City is found guilty, with predicted points deductions ranging from 15 to 50.
The outcome of this case will have significant implications for Manchester City and the broader Premier League landscape, with potential repercussions for financial regulations and competitive balance.