Wayne Rooney has said he would decline a 2012 Premier League winner's medal should Manchester City be stripped of their titles. The former Manchester United captain believes his side does not merit the honour after finishing runners-up to their local rivals.
On Friday, City were found guilty on 114 of 115 charges relating to breaches of Premier League financial regulations. The club maintains its innocence and has said it will appeal. The alleged violations span a nine-year period from 2009 to 2018.
Rooney's stance on retrospective medal
Some have called for City to forfeit all silverware won during that era, while others have advocated expulsion from the Premier League or a substantial points deduction that would result in relegation to the Championship. Rooney, however, insists he would not accept a medal if City were stripped of their 2011/12 title.
That season proved devastating for Sir Alex Ferguson's squad, who finished level on points with their neighbours but were edged out on goal difference after Sergio Aguero's iconic goal against QPR. While Rio Ferdinand and David de Gea appear willing to accept the crown 14 years later, Rooney says he is "uncomfortable" at the idea of being retrospectively crowned champions.
Premier League unlikely to strip titles
The Premier League appears likely to side with Rooney. BBC Sport report there is little appetite within the league, from either the organisation or its clubs, to take silverware away from City.
Ferdinand posted on X: "Another Premier League medal to be added to the cabinet," while De Gea added: "So...... Let's talk. How many Premier League titles have I won then?"
Rooney adopted a contrasting view, telling Stick to United: "I have heard Rio has come out saying about getting another Premier League medal...I wouldn't really feel comfortable accepting another Premier League medal, if I'm being honest."
City's appeal and potential sanctions
City have consistently maintained their innocence throughout their dispute with Premier League authorities, with an appeal against Friday's ruling widely anticipated. Club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak issued an open letter to supporters over the weekend, explaining the proceedings "still has a long way to run" while maintaining the club's position of no wrongdoing.
CEO Ferran Soriano attended discussions with Premier League representatives in Copenhagen this week, where he reportedly stated: "It's taken eight years to get here, and it's going to take a lot more time," referencing the charges first brought in 2018.
While giving up past titles remains a potential outcome, Premier League officials have several alternative sanctions at their disposal, including removal from the Premier League entirely, substantial points penalties, financial sanctions and restrictions on player recruitment.
