Could Man City be stripped of titles or relegated? Possible punishments for financial rule breaches

Manchester City have reportedly been found guilty of all but one of the 115 charges brought against them by the Premier League over breaches of its financial regulations.Man City were said to have been found guilty on 114 charges and cleared on one.A decision on sanctions has not yet been made, and City are expected to appeal the verdict.Any punishment would be determined in accordance with the Premier League’s rules and could range from a substantial points deduction to a suspension.In the most serious circumstances, it could even mean expulsion from the league.A Manchester City spokesperson said: “The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality.“As such Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023.“The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair minded regulator, free from partisan influence.”Read MoreHere’s a breakdown of what sanctions City could potentially face if their appeal is unsuccessful.Expulsion from the Premier League: The most severe sanction could see City removed from the Premier League and relegated to the Championship, with any decision subject to the relevant league rules and the outcome of any appeal.Suspension from Premier League matches: Another potential sanction would be a suspension. The club could potentially be suspended from participating in Premier League fixtures for a specified period.Points deduction: A significant deduction in points could be imposed, either during the current season or in a future campaign.The size and timing of any deduction would be determined as part of the sanctions process.Stripping of titles and trophies: Retrospective sporting penalties could also potentially affect honours that were won during the period covered by the charges.However, no decision has been made to strip City of any titles or trophies.Transfer restrictions: The club could potentially face restrictions on registering or signing players for one or more transfer windows.Fines: City could also face substantial financial penalties. The club could be ordered to pay fines, compensation or costs associated with the proceedings.The sanctions process is separate from the commission’s determination on the charges, meaning City’s punishment remains to be decided.