Manchester City's appeal against the ruling that the club breached Premier League financial rules will be heard next month, with a verdict expected in the New Year followed by sanctions if it is unsuccessful.
An independent commission found the club guilty of breaking Premier League financial rules over a nine-season period, with the ruling criticising "sham" sponsorship contracts. City have continued to protest their innocence in the wake of the verdict and confirmed they would appeal.
Appeal details revealed
Fresh details of the appeal have now been shared by The Financial Times, which reveals it will take place in December and could run for a number of days.
An independent commission will then determine City's fate, with a verdict expected in 2027. If City lose their appeal, that is also when sanctions will be placed upon them.
Potential delays and club response
However, the report adds that while Premier League rules give the commission the freedom to pass whatever sanctions it feels necessary, there is no indication as to when they come into effect. They would also be subject to appeals, meaning there may be further delays which could stretch beyond the conclusion of the current Premier League season.
Manchester City have been defiant in their communications since confirmation that they had been found guilty on all but one of the charges laid against them.
A club statement responding to the news back in September read: "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."
