Man City Chairman Breaks Silence, Fires Back at Premier League Investigation

Man City Chairman Breaks Silence, Fires Back at Premier League Investigation

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has maintained that the club remains confident of prevailing in the legal proceedings against them, despite being found guilty of 114 violations of Premier League rules.

A lengthy investigation spanning more than three years delivered a guilty verdict against City on Friday, with the club alleged to have deliberately misrepresented their financial figures between 2009 and 2018, while also failing to cooperate with investigators.

It is a landmark ruling—one that could have far-reaching consequences for the wider Premier League—though penalties have yet to be determined. City are expected to challenge the verdict, and according to Al Mubarak, remain firmly convinced they will ultimately be exonerated of all charges.

"Following Friday's media coverage, many of you will have spent your evening fielding questions and responding to messages from friends, family and colleagues," Al Mubarak wrote. "So have I.

"Here's what I told my family: The Premier League process still has a considerable way to go, and our confidence and determination to prove the Club's innocence is just as strong as it was when this all started.

"There are so many things I would like to be able to share with you to help explain why we feel so assured in our position. However, the strict confidentiality requirements of the legal process and our commitment to respecting them means I am unable to do so at this time. Even this letter went through several legal reviews to ensure it complies.

"I ask you to please read carefully the statement below, which we released on Friday, and the statement we issued in February 2023 (also below). Every word is significant and remains true."

Man City's Statement—February 2023

Manchester City FC is surprised by the issuing of these alleged breaches of the Premier League Rules, particularly given the extensive engagement and vast amount of detailed materials that the EPL has been provided with.

The Club 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.

As such we look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all.

Man City's Statement—September 2026

The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality.  As such Manchester City FC's position remains consistent with the Club's statement of February 2023.

The Club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis that the Premier League Board and Executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence.

Enzo Maresca

Al Mubarak went on to say: "While some have been quick to draw their own conclusions, and there is a great deal of noise surrounding us, nothing has changed. We have faced adversity together before and have come through it. There are still many who wish to derail the momentum of our Club. We will not give them that satisfaction.

"We have some exciting occasions to look forward to after this international break. We travel to Anfield in two weeks, and then welcome Paris St Germain in the Champions League back at Etihad Stadium—moments that give us the chance to celebrate the strength of the Manchester City family."

The City chairman's remarks echoed those of former midfield stalwart Rodri, who pointed to City's successful appeal of a UEFA charge in 2020 to reinforce his belief in the club's innocence.

Given the intricate nature of the investigation, any appeal process is likely to be lengthy, and a definitive outcome—or potential sanctions—are not anticipated until that final conclusion is reached.

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