Breaking: Verdict Over Manchester City’s 115 Charges ‘Unlikely’ Before 2025/26 Season | OneFootball

Manchester City’s Legal Saga Continues: Why a Verdict May Still Be Months Away

In a development that feels more procedural than dramatic, the Premier League’s long-running case against Manchester City—commonly referred to as the ‘115 charges’—is expected to stretch well into the summer, according to The Telegraph’s exclusive report. Originally forecasted to reach a conclusion by early spring, the verdict now looks unlikely before the 2025/26 season gets underway on August 16.

While this may disappoint those demanding closure, legal experts suggest the delay is not unexpected. With over 130 alleged rule breaches (a number clarified after initial confusion), the scale and complexity of the case make quick resolution unrealistic. City’s alleged violations include “not providing accurate financial information for nine separate seasons” and a failure to fully disclose “Roberto Mancini’s pay over the four seasons he was manager at the club from 2009 to 2013.”

An independent commission wrapped up hearings in December 2024 after almost three months of legal argument. Still, there was “no hard-and-fast deadline,” allowing the review panel the space to meticulously examine what has been dubbed football’s “trial of the century.”

Photo: IMAGO

City’s Defence Anchored in Confidence

Throughout, Manchester City have maintained a tone of unwavering self-assurance. The club “vehemently deny any wrongdoing” and insist they have “irrefutable evidence” that will exonerate them. Led by Lord Pannick KC, a heavyweight in legal circles, City’s legal team is no stranger to high-stakes litigation.

“We welcome the independent commission’s review to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position,” City said in a statement, doubling down on their belief that this matter will eventually be “put to rest once and for all.”

It’s also worth noting that City manager Pep Guardiola has consistently urged critics to reserve judgement, reiterating that only the final ruling should carry weight in the public discourse.

What’s at Stake Beyond the Courtroom

The potential consequences, however, are far-reaching. If the charges are upheld, City could face a significant points deduction, or in the most extreme scenario, relegation. Such sanctions would not only tarnish a historic era of dominance but could have major financial implications.

There’s even a possibility that other Premier League clubs might pursue compensation for alleged loss of income—missed titles, Champions League qualifications, and more. That figure could stretch into the hundreds of millions of pounds, especially for clubs narrowly edged out by City in past seasons.

Given that the Premier League’s investigation began more than six years ago, in 2018, and that the charges were formally levelled in February 2023, the sheer duration of this process is emblematic of just how high the stakes have become—not just for City, but for the integrity of English football.

Broader Implications for the Premier League

This isn’t just a Manchester City issue. This case has wider ramifications for how the Premier League regulates its clubs. The eventual verdict could set a precedent in terms of how robustly the league enforces Financial Fair Play (FFP) and other compliance frameworks moving forward.

The delay in verdict may be frustrating for fans and clubs alike, but legal precision often demands patience. “Given the number of charges, the complexities involved, the amount of evidence heard and challenged,” it’s clear this isn’t a case where rushed justice would serve anyone.

As it stands, football will have to wait.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a City fan, the never-ending silence feels like a punishment in itself. Every week that goes by without clarity feels like another cloud over our club’s legacy. We’ve heard “irrefutable evidence” time and time again, but the absence of any closure just breeds speculation. It’s hard not to wonder—if we’re truly innocent, why is this taking so long?

What’s more concerning is the timing. The summer verdict window could coincide with crucial transfer decisions and pre-season preparations. If a harsh sanction like relegation or a heavy points deduction comes down, it changes everything—from Guardiola’s future to whether players like Haaland or Foden stay.

The fact that other clubs might seek financial compensation is just fuel to the fire. They’re circling. Waiting. And we’re stuck in limbo, trying to celebrate wins while glancing nervously over our shoulders.

If we are proven guilty, it’s going to redefine what this era meant. But if we’re cleared, will the doubters finally stop? Or will the shadow always remain?

One thing’s certain—we need the truth, and we need it soon. For better or worse.