Manchester City maintains innocence amid 114 financial charges

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has reaffirmed the club’s confidence in proving its innocence, following media reports alleging the club committed 114 breaches of Premier League financial regulations.

In an open letter to fans on Saturday, Al Mubarak said legal proceedings are ongoing, stressing that the club’s belief in its innocence “remains as strong as when the case began.”

He noted that media coverage of the case has led many supporters to receive questions and messages from friends, family, and colleagues, adding that the club still faces a lengthy legal process.

Al Mubarak added that he is limited in what he can say due to the confidentiality of the proceedings, and noted that his open letter had undergone several legal reviews to ensure compliance with required standards.

The Manchester City chairman urged fans to carefully read the club’s official statements on the case, emphasizing that everything contained within them is “important and accurate.”

Manchester City has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, stating in a previous statement that the club was surprised by the charges, especially given what it described as extensive cooperation and the Premier League’s submission of a large volume of detailed material related to the case.

The club reiterated its rejection of the allegations on Friday, while the Premier League declined to comment on recent reports, citing the confidentiality of the proceedings.

Al Mubarak said the club will continue to address the case and called on fans to remain patient, adding that the ongoing speculation has not changed Manchester City’s position or determination to defend itself.

The Premier League referred Manchester City to an independent commission in February 2023 over alleged financial breaches spanning from the 2009-10 season to 2022-23, while the club has consistently denied any wrongdoing.

Key allegations include failing to provide accurate financial information for each season from 2009-10 to 2017-18, including a “true and fair view” of revenue, sponsorship income, and operating costs.

According to British media reports, Manchester City has appointed lawyer David Pannick to lead its defense team, while the Premier League is represented by lawyer Adam Lewis.

Hearings in the case began on September 16, 2024, and lasted nearly three months before concluding on December 6 of the same year. The case was heard by an independent panel of three judges appointed by the independent chair of the Premier League’s judicial panel.