Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has issued a forceful statement reaffirming the club's resolve following reports that the club has been found guilty on the majority of 115 financial breaches it was charged with in February 2023. In a direct address to supporters published on the club's official website, Al Mubarak emphasized that the Premier League process remains ongoing and vowed that the club's "confidence and intent in proving the club's innocence is just as strong as when this began." The independent panel that conducted the hearing in September 2024 has yet to publish its formal findings, and the Premier League has not made any official announcement regarding the verdict.
Al Mubarak, who has served as Manchester City's chairman since 2013, drew on the club's shared history with supporters to frame his message. "I have been part of this club for 18 years," he wrote, referencing memorable moments "in the Etihad, at Wembley, and in Istanbul." The chairman acknowledged the uncertainty and questions circulating among the club's fanbase in the wake of Friday's media reports, noting that supporters have been fielding inquiries from friends and family about the charges. He stressed that legal confidentiality restrictions prevent him from sharing details that would clarify the club's position, though he emphasized that the substance of previous statements issued in February 2023 and Friday remain unchanged and factually accurate.
The charges relate to alleged financial breaches spanning from 2009 to 2018, as well as accusations of hindering the Premier League's operations until 2023. According to reports, Manchester City denies all wrongdoing and maintains that the legal process continues with potentially significant consequences on the horizon. The range of possible penalties is broad, encompassing fines, transfer bans, points deductions, or even expulsion from the Premier League. Additionally, Premier League clubs are reportedly considering collective legal action, with club officials prepared to pursue damages against Manchester City following any appeal, with initial figures reportedly around £2 billion citing missed titles and European opportunities.
Despite the cloud now hanging over the club, Al Mubarak concluded his statement by directing attention toward upcoming fixtures, noting that Manchester City has "some exciting moments to look forward to after this international break." The club faces a trip to Anfield in two weeks, followed by a Champions League encounter against Paris St Germain at the Etihad Stadium. Al Mubarak's message underscores a determined effort to maintain club momentum while the lengthy legal process unfolds, positioning Manchester City's immediate future on the pitch as a focal point even as the broader question of financial sanctions looms.