English Premier League football club Manchester City is on trial this week following alleged violations of the Premier League’s financial regulations.
The club has had major success since 2008, when it was purchased by Sheikh Mansour’s Abu Dhabi United Group.
It won a Champions League title in 2023 and has picked up six of the last seven Premier League titles.
What are the charges for?
Last year, Manchester City was charged with 115 breaches of league rules between 2009 and 2023. The club is accused of failing to provide accurate financial information regarding sponsorship, operating costs, and revenue.
35 of the 115 charges are for not assisting with the Premier League’s investigation. The club has always denied any wrongdoing.
The case, which is expected to last about ten weeks, is being presided over by three judges appointed by the Premier League Judicial Panel.
Possible consequences
If found guilty, the club could be docked Premier League points or even expelled from the League. They may also be stripped of titles if it is found they gained an unfair advantage during successful years. Manchester City currently sits at the top of the Premier League table, with four wins from four games.
What they said
Last week, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said: “It starts soon and then [hopefully] finishes soon… Everyone is innocent until proven guilty.”
When the charges were announced in 2023, the club said it “welcomes the review of this matter by an independent commission, to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position.”
