High-ranking officials from Premier League clubs have expressed to Sky Sports News their disbelief that 15 clubs would back the exclusion of Manchester City from the league. This potential step has been described as ‘commercial suicide’ following an independent commission's ruling that the club was guilty of 114 out of 115 financial misconduct charges.
One unnamed executive explained:
If Manchester City are excluded, it would result in huge commercial ramifications for all league participants and ultimately cost other clubs a significant amount of money.
They warned that broadcasters could demand compensation for the reduced quality of matches, while sponsorship revenues would likely diminish due to the loss of the club's commercial appeal. Another source highlighted the risk involved in pushing for exclusion, especially with superstar players like Erling Haaland and Phil Foden's futures hanging in the balance.
Meanwhile, Manchester City remains steadfast in denying all allegations and plans to lodge an appeal. The club could face further severe penalties, including points deduction that could see them relegated.
Championship clubs are also voicing their opposition to a potential drop for City into their division. One director remarked:
Their finances are so vast that they would simply crush the Championship and bounce back immediately, killing the pathway for other clubs to achieve promotion.
Another representative added that City should earn their way back into English football through hard work.
