Premier League Chief Admits Man City Case Delay

Manchester City will begin the 2026-27 Premier League season under a cloud of unresolved uncertainty, as the league's chief executive has admitted the long-running disciplinary case concerning the club's alleged financial breaches has taken longer than expected to conclude. Richard Masters acknowledged the frustration surrounding the delayed verdict but emphasized that confidentiality rules prevent him from providing any update on timing.

The case stems from charges brought by the Premier League in February 2023, alleging over 100 breaches of financial rules spanning from the 2009-10 to 2017-18 seasons. The charges, which City strenuously deny, include failing to report accurate financial information, not providing full details of former manager Roberto Mancini's remuneration, and failing to cooperate with the investigation. The number of charges has been reported as 130 following administrative amendments.

An independent commission heard the case over 12 weeks between September and December 2024. Despite initial expectations of a verdict within months, no decision has been delivered more than 20 months after the hearing concluded. Masters, speaking to broadcasters ahead of the...