Manchester City have been found guilty of 114 out of 115 charges relating to alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations, according to reports emerging on Friday, September 25, 2026.
The verdict represents a major development in the Premier League’s long-running case against the reigning English champions. However, no punishment has yet been formally announced, meaning suggestions of an immediate points deduction or relegation should be understood as potential sanctions rather than confirmed outcomes.
115 Charges Dating Back to 2009
The Premier League formally charged Manchester City in February 2023 following a lengthy investigation into the club’s financial affairs.
The allegations cover a period from the 2009/10 season through the 2017/18 campaign. They include accusations concerning the provision of inaccurate financial information, player and managerial remuneration, compliance with financial regulations and cooperation with the Premier League’s investigation.
Among the allegations were claims that City failed to provide accurate information concerning the club’s financial position and certain payments involving players and managers.
The club has consistently denied wrongdoing and has maintained that it possesses evidence supporting its position.
Independent Commission Reaches Verdict
An independent commission was established to consider the allegations. Its hearing began in September 2024 and concluded in December of that year after an extensive examination of evidence and arguments from both sides.
The commission’s decision was subsequently awaited for an extended period because of the complexity and volume of the case. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters had previously acknowledged that the process was taking longer than expected.
The latest reports indicate that the commission has now found Manchester City guilty on 114 of the 115 charges, with one charge not upheld.
Punishment Has Not Yet Been Decided
Despite the verdict, Manchester City’s final punishment remains unresolved.
Potential sporting and financial sanctions could include a substantial fine, a points deduction or other disciplinary measures. More severe possibilities could involve restrictions affecting the club’s Premier League status, although relegation or expulsion has not been confirmed.
The severity of any eventual sanction will depend on the independent disciplinary process and the applicable Premier League rules.
Reports indicate that all possibilities remain open while the punishment phase is considered.
Manchester City Expected to Appeal
Manchester City are expected to challenge the verdict and any sanctions imposed against them.
An appeal could therefore extend the legal and regulatory battle further. The club has maintained its position that it did not breach the financial regulations alleged by the Premier League.
A City spokesperson has also indicated that the Premier League process remains ongoing and that significant aspects of the matter remain confidential.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus is now on the sanctions that could follow the commission’s findings.
If a points deduction is imposed, it could have implications for Manchester City’s position in the Premier League table. If more severe sporting sanctions are ordered, the club’s participation in the competition could also become an issue.
However, until the disciplinary sanction is officially determined and any appeal process is completed, it would be premature to state that Manchester City will definitely be relegated.
The case could therefore enter another significant phase as the club prepares to respond to the verdict and the Premier League’s disciplinary process moves forward.
For now, the confirmed development is that Manchester City have been found guilty of 114 of the 115 charges, while the punishment and subsequent appeal process remain to be determined.