Man City Could Be Expelled From Premier League

Manchester City could face one of the most severe punishments in Premier League history after being found guilty of serious financial rule breaches.

The club was found guilty by an independent commission of all charges relating to serious financial breaches covering nine seasons from 2009/10 to 2017/18, as well as most of the charges concerning its failure to cooperate with the Premier League's investigation.

City has strongly rejected the findings and has now lodged an appeal, meaning the case is not finished.

However, The Athletic journalist David Ornstein has warned that the eventual punishment could be extremely severe.

Speaking after the verdict, Ornstein said he could see a scenario where Manchester City are expelled from the Premier League, while stressing that this was speculation because the independent commission has yet to determine the sanction.

The possible punishments are wide-ranging.

The Premier League says the independent commission has broad discretion, with sanctions potentially including fines, points deductions and other sporting penalties. Expulsion is also among the possible outcomes.

Sky Sports has also reported that possible sanctions could include a transfer embargo, while expulsion would represent the most extreme sporting consequence.

There could also be financial consequences beyond a simple fine.

Rival clubs have reportedly considered whether they could seek compensation if they can demonstrate that City's alleged rule breaches caused them financial losses, such as missing out on titles, Champions League qualification or prize money.

For now, however, Manchester City have not been expelled from the Premier League and no final punishment has been announced.

The next major stage is the appeal.

If City's appeal fails, the independent commission will then determine the punishment — and football could be facing a decision that dramatically changes the history of the Premier League.