Manchester City could be facing the toughest sanctions imaginable after the club was found guilty of 114 out of 115 financial fair play violations. The English giants are appealing the verdict, maintaining their innocence, but if they fail, the repercussions could be dire.
In addition to potential points deductions, fines, and title removals, the ramifications could extend beyond sporting sanctions. David Kogan, head of the Independent Football Regulator, has revealed in the podcast The Rest is Football that his organisation is prepared to initiate its own investigation.
We will evaluate the actions of the owners, senior management, and directors. Unlike the Premier League, we cannot fine the club or deduct points. We assess specific individuals.
Kogan stressed that the regulator possesses unprecedented powers, including the ability to force a change of club ownership.
We have the right to demand that an owner step away from the club's management if we believe they are operating it dishonestly or improperly. Can they refuse? No, no, no. We have absolute power to do this.
As the club fights back and prepares to take their case to the High Court, the looming threat of forced sale is becoming the main cause for concern among the City hierarchy.
