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Manchester City have reportedly been found guilty of 114 out of 115 financial charges brought against them following a Premier League investigation.
The club was first charged by the Premier League back in February 2023 for serious financial violations of the league's rules, relating to conduct between 2009 and 2018, with the lengthy nature of the proceedings frequently frustrating rival supporters.
According to The Athletic, a verdict has finally been delivered, with City judged to be guilty of 114 of the 115 charges levelled against them.
City, who have consistently denied all allegations, are now widely expected to lodge an appeal against the ruling.
"The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality," a club statement read. "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 the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair minded regulator, free from partisan influence."
The Times reports that the Premier League are confident they would prevail against City in any subsequent appeal proceedings.
When Will Punishments Be Handed Out?
The report indicates that sanctions have yet to be determined, with all options still on the table at this stage.
The prospect of an appeal from whichever party lost the initial verdict meant that immediate penalties were never anticipated, as this represents merely a key milestone in a process that is still likely to continue for some time.
Given the gravity of the charges facing City, alongside accusations of failing to cooperate with investigators, the club could be subject to severe consequences. Previous, lesser violations have resulted in punishments ranging from points deductions to financial penalties, which can also be applied in combination.
Premier League rules also allow for the possibility of expulsion from the division, as well as retrospective measures, meaning City could potentially be stripped of league titles won during the period under scrutiny.