Peter Schmeichel Urges Premier League to Keep Man City as He Proposes Four Severe Punishments

Former Manchester United and Manchester City goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has urged the Premier League not to relegate Manchester City, instead proposing a series of severe punishments if the club's guilty verdict over alleged financial rule breaches is upheld.

The Danish football legend believes City should remain in England's top flight but face sanctions strong enough to serve as a warning to every other club. His suggestions come amid growing debate over the consequences of the independent commission's findings against the reigning English football giants.

Speaking on Viaplay following Manchester City's 3-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, Schmeichel outlined his preferred punishments, making it clear that he believes relegation should not necessarily be the answer.

"I think, of course, you keep them in the Premier League. But for every year they're in the Premier League, the next five years, they start on -25 points," Schmeichel said.

Schmeichel's Four Proposed Punishments

The former goalkeeper outlined four major measures he believes should be imposed on Manchester City.

1. A 25-point deduction for five consecutive seasons

Schmeichel wants City to begin each of the next five Premier League campaigns with a 25-point deficit. Such a punishment would leave the club facing an enormous challenge every season, potentially affecting its title ambitions and European qualification prospects.

2. A five-year transfer ban

He also called for a five-year transfer ban, which would severely restrict City's ability to strengthen their squad and replace departing players during the period of punishment.

3. A substantial financial fine

Schmeichel believes a significant financial penalty should accompany the sporting sanctions, although he did not specify an amount.

4. Forced sale of the club

Perhaps his most controversial proposal is that City's current ownership should be forced to sell the club.

"And then I think the ownership should be forced to sell the club," he added, arguing that the punishment should extend beyond the team itself.

Schmeichel also called for individuals found to have been involved in the wrongdoing to receive bans preventing them from working in football.

"I think this is important: a transfer ban for five years and a big fine," he said, stressing the need for consequences that would deter similar conduct ac

Should Manchester City Be Stripped of Their Titles?

On the question of Manchester City's previous trophies, Schmeichel appeared less concerned about whether the club would be stripped of its titles, suggesting that the other proposed sanctions would be more significant.

"Take the titles away or let them keep the titles. I don't think it matters one way or the other," he said.