Man City might dodge a big punishment because of a little-known rule, and Premier League clubs are worried about what could happen.
Leaders in the Premier League are worried that Manchester City might still play in the Champions League next season, even if they get relegated for breaking financial rules.
The Premier League found City guilty of wrongdoings from 2009 to 2018, during which they won three league titles. An independent commission revealed last week that City used fake contracts to make their finances look better and lower their costs.
Man City reportedly arranged secret funding deals worth over £830 million and hid about £90 million in extra expenses.
Possible punishments include suspension from the league, losing points, replaying matches, being kicked out, paying compensation, automatic relegation, or losing their titles.
But BBC Sport says there’s a loophole that might let City play in the Champions League despite these penalties.
Top people in English football are ‘concerned’ because UEFA’s license system for European games doesn’t consider old rule breaches. So, even if City face harsh punishments here, they might still qualify for Europe.
To be banned, a club usually has to have unpaid debts, match-fixing convictions, or conflicts of interest, none of which fit City’s case.
Of course, City would need to actually win the Champions League to qualify if they’re out of the Premier League, but many feel it would be wrong for them to get European rewards after breaking financial rules.
Man City have denied any wrongdoing and appealed the verdict on October 1, saying they have strong evidence to prove their case.
The appeal process can take up to 12 weeks, with a decision following within 30 days afterward. If the appeal fails, the exact punishment isn’t clear yet, but reports say some Premier League clubs want City to face tough penalties, including points deductions over several seasons and a transfer ban spanning multiple windows.
City’s next Premier League match is on Sunday, October 11, away at Liverpool, where they’re expected to face a very tough crowd.