Richard Masters, the Chief Executive of the Premier League, made important statements regarding Manchester City's conviction in 114 breaches of Premier League rules and Financial Fair Play regulations between 2009 and 2018.
The Premier League issued an official statement today, Tuesday, announcing Manchester City's conviction by decision of the Independent Commission for Investigations, with the charges attributed to them being proven (Read the full statement here).
Richard Masters, the Chief Executive of the Premier League, stated: "The primary findings establish the facts of what occurred at Manchester City during this period, and detail how the club systematically breached Premier League rules for nearly a decade."
He added: "Despite the length and difficulty of the proceedings so far, the Premier League is determined to independently verify the facts and ensure that the rules, which were agreed upon by the clubs themselves, are enforced to protect the integrity of the competition."
He emphasized: "This disciplinary case and this decision are the most significant in the history of the Premier League. There are still aspects of the case that need to be resolved, including, most importantly, determining the appropriate sanction for these breaches. Now that the Commission's decision has been issued, we are committed to proceeding swiftly with the remaining steps to provide certainty for the League, our clubs, and our fans."
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According to the Premier League statement, following the proof of charges, the sanction to be imposed on Manchester City will be considered separately in a subsequent hearing before the Independent Commission. Under Premier League rules, that hearing will remain private and confidential until publication of its outcome is permitted.
The Premier League also noted that Manchester City has the right to appeal the findings of the Independent Commission, with a deadline of Friday, October 2nd, to exercise this right.
The Premier League began investigating Manchester City in December 2018, subsequently filed formal charges in February 2023, and the Independent Commission held hearings lasting 42 days, concluding its work in December 2024.
Under Premier League regulations, an appeal may be lodged with an Appeal Panel. The Chair of the Judicial Body appoints the Appeal Panels, which consist of three members, one of whom previously held judicial office and chairs the Appeal Panel. The panel may allow or dismiss the appeal, or issue any other decision it deems appropriate, including modifying the Commission's decision.
Disciplinary proceedings between the Premier League and the club are confidential, as stipulated by League regulations. Consequently, the outcomes of final decisions by the panels are published after the investigation concludes.