Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
George Flood

Man City ‘surprised’ at Premier League charges but welcome chance to end matter ‘once and for all’

Defiant: Manchester City are confident they have done nothing wrong after charges from Premier League

(Picture: Manchester City FC via Getty Ima)

Manchester City have registered their “surprise” at being hit with Premier League charges over numerous alleged breaches of financial rules in a defiant first official response.

In an explosive statement released on Thursday morning, the top-flight announced charges relating to over 100 alleged rule breaches over nine seasons by reigning champions City from 2009-10 to 2017-18.

An independent commission will now decide how to proceed, with potential punishments for the club if the charges are proven ranging from possible points deductions to expulsion from the Premier League itself.

City have now issued a firm riposte to those charges, stating their shock but insisting that they have a “comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence” in support of their position.

The club also said they welcome a review from an independent commission for the chance to put the matter “to rest once and for all”.

In full, City’s short statement read: “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.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.