It is the biggest scandal in the history of English football. But two weeks after the Premier League independent commission’s findings against Manchester City were published, how much closer are we to reaching a resolution? Sky Sports News' Chief Correspondent Kaveh Solhekol breaks down the state of play...
It's taking this long because this case is the biggest of its kind and Manchester City have been using all means at their disposal to fight to prove their innocence. The Premier League want a quick resolution whereas it is in City's interests - and within their rights - to explore every single legal avenue open to them. City obviously have unlimited funds to do that.
The Premier League want the sanctions hearing to be heard as soon as possible but that is not necessarily the case for City. The outcome of this process is going to be so big for City that they want to make sure that everything is done strictly according to the rules. The longer City are winning and top of the table, the more uncomfortable it is for the Premier League and the other clubs.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Not necessarily. The sanctions hearing can take place while the appeal process runs its course. That is not clear as things stand but you would assume that the Premier League would want any sanctions made public, while it would be in City's interests to keep everything private and confidential until the final decision.
The same three-person panel which heard evidence at the 42-day hearing in 2024 and delivered its core decision two weeks ago will decide on sanctions. The Premier League, as the prosecutors, will put forward their recommendation for suitable sanctions while City's lawyers will make their case. Both sides can appeal against the sanctions decision.
Yes, subject to it being challenged by City in the High Court. Clubs would also need to vote to expel City from the Premier League if that was part of any potential punishment. City submitted their appeal on Thursday October 1 and the Premier League have new rules this season which state an appeal has to be heard within 12 weeks of it being lodged.
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