Man City face another wait as December appeal hearing reported

Manchester City’s appeal against findings that they breached Premier League financial rules is expected to be heard in mid-December, according to the Financial Times.

A judgment is expected in the new year. If the appeal is unsuccessful, a separate decision on sanctions would follow, the newspaper reports.

Man City appeal date: what the FT reports

The FT, citing people familiar with the situation, says the hearing could last several days.

The timing of the proceedings has been closely guarded. Some had previously suggested sanctions could be announced before the appeal process concluded. City and the Premier League both declined to comment on the reported timetable.

How City got here

City were charged in February 2023. On 29 September this year, an independent commission found them guilty of 114 of the 115 charges. The breaches covered a nine-season period, along with failing to co-operate with the league’s investigation.

According to reports of the ruling, the commission found that a private Abu Dhabi investment company, ultimately controlled by City owner Sheikh Mansour, had topped up the fees paid by some of the club’s commercial sponsors.

City have always denied wrongdoing. They lodged their appeal on 1 October, saying the findings contain “clear material errors of law, principle and fact”. You can catch up on the background in our piece on how the Man City charges case could widen.

What happens if the appeal fails?

If City lose, sanctions would be considered separately. The Premier League’s rules give the independent commission broad powers, including fines, points deductions and other sporting sanctions.

When any punishment would take effect is not yet clear. Any sanction could itself be open to appeal.

City on the pitch

City go into the international break after three straight league defeats, following seven wins from their first seven games. The latest was a 3-1 loss at Nottingham Forest, and you can read our Forest 3-1 Man City report for how that one unfolded.

For all the latest, head to our Premier League hub.

Man City appeal FAQ

When is the Man City appeal?
Mid-December, according to the Financial Times. The hearing could last several days.

When could Man City be sanctioned?
The FT reports that a sanctions decision would follow the appeal judgment, which is expected in the new year, if City’s appeal fails.

How many charges were Man City found guilty of?
114 of the 115, in a verdict published on 29 September.

What punishment could Man City face?
The independent commission has broad powers under Premier League rules, including fines, points deductions and other sporting sanctions.