Manchester City are facing a severe punishment after being found guilty of breaching 114 Premier League financial rules, with the deadline to appeal the decision moving ever closer.
Guilty Verdict and Appeal Deadline
The Premier League announced earlier this week that City had been found guilty of 114 charges brought against them for financial breaches. City responded by maintaining their innocence and have until Friday to launch an appeal, with the club expected to do so before the deadline.
It now remains to be seen what punishment is given to City, with reports claiming that chiefs at other football clubs want a sanction to be imposed before the end of the season.
Sponsor and Ownership Concerns
Etihad, the main shirt sponsor for City, have also issued a statement in response saying they are "deeply concerned" by the Premier League's announcement. There are also concerns that City's Abu Dhabi owners could be stripped from the club, something Prime Minister Andy Burnham doesn't want to happen.
New Evidence Claim Refuted
Elsewhere, former City chief Chris Bird has claimed his old club might have new evidence to prove their innocence. However, football finance expert Stefan Borson has refuted the claim, insisting that under Premier League rules, City cannot submit new evidence without the independent panel's permission.
The saga continues to unfold as the club prepares its next move before the appeal deadline.
