A leading fan figure at Manchester City says the club's success will be 'tainted' if they are found guilty of committing over 100 breaches of the Premier League's financial rules.
On Monday the football world was rocked by the news that City had been charged with breaking the league's financial rules between 2009 and 2018.
The Premier League alleges that over the nine-season period, City did not accurately present their financial situation in terms of revenue and sponsorships. The other charges relate to manager and player remuneration, profit and sustainability rules and non-compliance with UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations.
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An independent arbitration panel will be appointed to oversee the case. It could take months and even years for a verdict to be reached, but should Pep Guardiola's side be found guilty then punishments ranging from points deductions to enforced relegations are all on the table.
City have enjoyed an unprecedented era of success since Sheikh Mansour bought the club in 2008, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups.
Kevin Parker, general secretary of City's official supporters' club, has admitted that the charges could taint that success though.
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"I've placed my faith in the football club," Parker told The Sports Desk podcast.
"[The achievements] will be tainted if the club are found guilty. If anything I'm hoping as a City fan it has this mentality to bring everyone together."
However, like many City fans, Parker insists he will always support the Blues, regardless of the outcome of the case.
"No matter what might happen in the future, nobody can take away some of the special moments we've had. No matter what happens off the field, nobody can take those fantastic moments away from us," he said.
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"The club, having been given the opportunity to declare innocence or not, have said they are innocent. Would I be disappointed [if City are found guilty]? Of course, because part of my belief in what this club is currently doing will have been broken.
"The day before the verdict and the day after the verdict, I'll still be a City fan and support them."
Topics: Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, Premier League, Erling Haaland
Alex Brotherton