Manchester City expected to appeal if breaches confirmed in tribunal findings

An independent tribunal has reportedly reached decisions regarding Manchester City's 115 charges. Following these findings, the inquiry is set to move into the appeals stage. If any breaches are confirmed, it is expected that Manchester City will appeal the decisions, with both parties allowed to do so within 14 days of the judgment. Appeals will be heard by a new three-person commission, which will evaluate the case based on specific grounds such as fraud or misconduct.

The appeals process is governed by Section W of the Premier League Rules, allowing parties to challenge the Commission's decisions. An Appeal Board, appointed by Sir Gary Hickinbottom, will consist of three members, including one with judicial experience. The proceedings will be confidential and heard in private, with the Appeal Board having the discretion to allow or dismiss the appeal, or issue any order it sees fit.

Potential punishments for Manchester City could include fines, points deductions, or other sporting sanctions. The Premier League currently lacks set sanctions for financial rule breaches, as clubs opted against predefined penalties due to concerns that teams might intentionally breach rules if they knew the consequences. However, discussions have been initiated regarding a Sanctions Grid to outline agreed penalties for various breaches.

While sanctions can be determined during the appeal process, a separate hearing would be required to address them. The appeal itself would conclude this stage of the inquiry, with no possibility of escalation to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. However, further legal actions may arise, particularly from other clubs that could claim damages for missed trophies or Champions League qualification due to Manchester City's alleged breaches.

via Sky Sports