An independent commission has ruled that Manchester City have been guilty on all charges regarding serious violations of Premier League financial rules spanning from the 2009/10 season to 2017/18. The club has also been found guilty on most counts of obstructing the league's investigation.
Findings of the independent commission
"Fictitious" contracts and inflated income: The commission established that the club entered into false agreements with commercial partners and sponsors to artificially inflate their revenues and reduce their expenses by over £900 million. Part of the sponsorship funds were financed by the club's owners through the Abu Dhabi United Group (ADUG).
Data concealment: Manchester City submitted inaccurate financial reports while hiding their actual financial state from auditors and football regulators, aiming to bypass UEFA's profitability, sustainability, and financial fair play regulations.
Obstruction of investigation: Throughout a four-year investigation, the club committed numerous violations of cooperation and good faith obligations, attempting to hinder and sabotage the process.
Next steps
The Premier League has published an edited version of the independent commission's findings. Sanctions against the club will be considered separately in upcoming hearings, so Manchester City are yet to face a punishment. The club retains the right to appeal the commission's decision by Friday, October 2.
