The Premier League aims to tighten rules regarding associated-party transactions (APTs), preventing teams from engaging in commercial deals at inflated prices with sponsors closely linked to the club or its owners. Sky News reports that the Premier League has informed its 20 member clubs that one of them has signalled potential arbitration proceedings to halt the proposed changes. With 115 charges of breaching financial rules looming and previous objections to stricter APT regulations, City is rumoured to be the club in question.
Increased revenue streams enable clubs to invest more in transfer fees and wages, making extra commercial income crucial for staying competitive and expanding budgets. However, longstanding accusations have targeted Manchester City, who generated a record revenue of £712.8 million in 2022/23, alleging that they struck deals with Abu Dhabi-based firms to circumvent financial fair play rules. Despite consistent allegations since 2018, notably by German magazine Der Spiegel, City has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Sheikh Mansour’s 2008 takeover reportedly cost the Abu Dhabi royal family member £210 million ($410 million at the time). By May 2023, Forbes estimated the club’s value at £3.92 billion ($4.9 billion), ranking City as the world’s fifth most valuable club, trailing only Real Madrid, Manchester United, Barcelona, and Liverpool.
A year has passed since the Premier League brought 115 charges against City for breaching financial regulations between 2009 and 2018, but a hearing is yet to commence, indicating a prolonged resolution process. Meanwhile, on the field, Pep Guardiola’s team must maintain focus on winning games and disregard external distractions. Their next challenge is a home fixture against Everton on Saturday, another club ensnared by the Premier League’s financial regulations.
Manchester City performance and stats
Manchester City
Manchester City is currently 2nd in the Premier League with 49 points.
In the last 22 games, it has won 15 times, drawn 4 times, and lost 3 times. In its last match, Manchester City won 1-3 against Brentford.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 54 goals and conceding 25.
Manchester City will play the next match in Premier League against Everton on Saturday 10th of February in Manchester. The prediction is Manchester City winning the match.
