Rio Ferdinand has joked that he could be in line for an additional Premier League winners' medal after reports emerged that Manchester City had been found guilty on almost all charges relating to alleged breaches of the league's financial regulations.
The verdict could have major ramifications across English football and may even have implications for Manchester United. City have been found guilty on all but one of the 115 charges brought against them. Any sanctions are yet to be determined, while the club are expected to appeal the decision.
Club statement
In a statement a Manchester City spokesperson said: "The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality.
"As such Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023. The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair minded regulator, free from partisan influence."
City have consistently denied the 115 charges, which relate to alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations between 2009 and 2018. The charges were brought in February 2023, with the hearing taking place between September and December 2024.
Ferdinand's reaction
Among the allegations are 54 counts of failing to provide accurate financial information, along with 14 further charges relating to the reporting of player and manager remuneration.
Nearly two years on from the conclusion of the hearing, it appears a verdict has now been reached by the independent commission. Potential sanctions available under Premier League rules range from financial penalties and points deductions to expulsion from the competition.
Reacting to the reports, Ferdinand took to X and wrote: "Another Premier League medal to be added to the cabinet."
Ferdinand continued the joke on Instagram, sharing a photo of himself alongside his collection of medals from his time at Old Trafford, captioning the post: "Yooooooo Premier League... happy for the 7th medal to be sent in the post!
The former United defender appears to be alluding to the 2011/12 season, when Sir Alex Ferguson's side missed out on the title to Manchester City on goal difference after Sergio Aguero's dramatic last-gasp winner against QPR. Had United finished top, Ferdinand would have collected another Premier League winners' medal.
