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⚖️ What’s Happening
A sports finance specialist has raised the alarm, calling it a potential “complete disaster” if Manchester City’s FFP verdict is announced late — possibly mid-season — which could wreak havoc on Premier League planning and integrity .
Though expected in spring, the independent panel’s decision remains elusive, with legal insiders warning it might drag on “for another couple of years” due to appeals .
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🧭 What This Means for City & the League
Potential Outcome Impact
Announcement before off-season Safe release; clubs can plan transfers and compliance
Verdict delayed into season Could affect player registrations, club budgets, and competitive fairness
Severe penalties (points docked/fines/transfer bans) Could reshape Premier League standings — worst-case is relegation-style sanction
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🔎 Expert Take
Stefan Borson from talkSPORT notes clubs want clarity “during the close season”, fearing a ruling mid-season would be chaos .
Meanwhile, ex-player Gary Neville slammed the drawn-out case as “an absolute disgrace,” calling for resolution .
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🕒 What’s Next
1. Expect the verdict very soon — possibly within the next two weeks, ideally before the Club World Cup.
2. If not, brace for a protracted legal battle, with appeals possibly pushing the final outcome into 2026 .
3. Clubs are scrambling to prepare contingency budgets and adjust transfer plans amid mounting uncertainty.
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💬 In Summary
The verdict on City’s 130+ alleged FFP breaches could land at any moment—or be delayed indefinitely—potentially rocking the Premier League’s foundations. A decision before pre-season could offer much-needed clarity, while any delay risks upending club strategies mid-competition.
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Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of possible sanctions
or how other Premier League clubs are reacting.
