Manchester City could face severe penalties, including potential points deductions and relegation from the Premier League if found guilty of breaching league rules.
Recent revelations indicate that the club may also be at risk of being expelled from the FA and Carabao Cup.
Sources suggest that while a one-time points deduction might not be deemed sufficient punishment for the reigning four-time Premier League champions, the league’s officials are considering more severe sanctions, including possible expulsion from the club. Such a punishment could cascade, potentially removing the City from other domestic competition.
Clause 31 of the FA Cup rules states that if a club is removed from the league in which it competes, the Professional Game Board (PGB) has the authority to remove it. This clause allows the FA to exclude City from the tournament if they choose to exercise it.
Additionally, participation in the EFL Cup requires that a team competes in one of England’s top four divisions. If City were to be relegated to the National League or lower, they would not be eligible for the Carabao Cup.
Regarding European competition, UEFA mandates clubs holding a UEFA license to compete. The implications of a potential Premier League expulsion on City’s ability to participate in the Champions League remain unclear, as both UEFA and the Premier League administer these licenses.
The new FIFA Club World Cup also raises questions, as there are currently no clear public rules regarding eligibility following any sanctions.
Manchester City began its trial to contest the charges on Monday and has consistently denied any wrongdoing throughout.
