Manchester City Appeal Financial Verdict: What Sanctions Could They Face?

The Appeal Process

Manchester City has officially appealed the guilty verdict over breaches of Premier League financial rules. The club lodged its appeal on October 2, just days after the independent commission published its judgment on September 29. City continues to protest its innocence, claiming they have "irrefutable evidence".

A new three member panel will now review the case. This board will be chaired by a judge. By rule, the appeal must finish within 12 weeks of being lodged. Because of a two week holiday shutdown over Christmas and New Year, a final decision is expected by February 8.

Potential Punishments and Relegation

While the appeal is heard, a separate sanctions hearing will run at the same time. We should know the final penalties by mid February.

The punishments could be severe. City could face an unlimited fine, which sources suggest could reach 500 million pounds. There is also the threat of points deductions or even expulsion from the Premier League.

If the commission decides to expel City, 15 of the 20 Premier League clubs must vote to accept it. Another option is a massive points deduction of at least 60 points, which would relegate the club to the Championship. If they are kicked out completely, City might have to apply to the English Football League to start again in League Two.

What it means for the next game

Liverpool vs Manchester City (Premier League, Sun, 11 Oct): Liverpool win 34%, draw 26%, Manchester City win 40%; expected goals 1.36 to 1.50. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.

Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain (Champions League, Wed, 14 Oct): Manchester City win 45%, draw 24%, Paris Saint-Germain win 31%; expected goals 1.79 to 1.45. Our safest pick: Over 1.5 goals.