Manchester City's rivals could claim more than £100 million each in compensation if the club is found guilty of its 115 alleged breaches of Premier League rules, following Burnley's landmark legal success against Everton.
Burnley's Legal Victory Against Everton
Burnley was awarded over £30 million, plus interest, from Everton by an independent Premier League commission. The commission ruled that Everton gained a sporting advantage by breaching Profitability and Sustainability Rules, a decision the Merseyside club is appealing. The award included £26 million for losses due to relegation and £9.1 million in interest. Everton accepted the breach but disputed the extent of the advantage, while Burnley's expert claimed losses of £51.7 million before interest.
Potential Impact on Manchester City
Premier League rules prevent clubs from suing each other through courts, but arbitration is allowed. If Manchester City is found guilty of the 115 charges, they could face similar compensation claims. Four clubs—Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Tottenham—served legal notices on City in 2024, reserving the right to seek compensation. Sources estimate potential losses for these clubs could exceed £100 million each, primarily due to lost Champions League revenue, with interest significantly increasing the total.
During the period in question (2009-2017), Manchester City won two Premier League titles and qualified for the Champions League in seven consecutive seasons. City has consistently protested its innocence, and chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak recently vowed to speak fully once a ruling is made.
