Topics: Manchester City, Premier League, Pep Guardiola
A major update regarding the hearing into Manchester City's 115 charges for alleged breaches of the Premier League's financial rules has emerged.
City have been charged with breaking financial fair play rules over a nine-year period, which started in 2009 and went on until 2018.
According to the Premier League, the club broke the rules by allegedly failing to provide accurate financial information. City, meanwhile, strenuously deny the allegations made relating to financial irregularity and have vowed to clear their name.
A hearing into the previously mentioned charges began last month, although the hearing is ongoing and private, meaning little information has been released to the public.
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It was widely reported that the trial was expected to run for 10 weeks, with a verdict expected in early 2025.
But a new report from The Athletic suggests a verdict is now expected before the end of the year.
Severe fines, points deductions or relegation are among the potential punishments for the reigning Premier League champions if they are found guilty.
Earlier this month, a Manchester City source revealed the 'whispers' they have heard about Pep Guardiola amid the club's alleged 115 breaches of Premier League rules.
Guardiola's existing deal at the Etihad expires in June 2025 and speculation continues to be rife around his future.
But according to The Athletic, a source says City will continue to try to change his mind. In fact, there have been 'whispers' that he is considering a potential stay.
When asked about the need to defend City amid the ongoing legal battle with the Premier League, Guardiola made his feelings clear.
"I am part of this club, deep inside my bones," he said. "I’m part of this club, not just the manager. I love this club and it will always be this way. It cannot be different (given) the way they treat me from day one. It is impossible."
More recently, Guardiola said he still needs time to decide on his future. "Let’s see on my future," he told Italian TV show Che Tempo Che Fa. “I still need to reflect and decide what I want to do."
