The current Premier League champions have been hit with 115 allegations related to Financial Fair Play (FFP) misconduct, leading to concerns about potential consequences under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).In recent cases, Premier League teams such as Everton and Nottingham Forest have already faced point deductions for similar violations.
The allegations against the reigning champions have sparked widespread debate about the possible outcomes, with many speculating about severe sanctions such as point deductions, relegation, or even stripping of past titles. EFL chairman Darragh MacAnthony, who also owns League One side Peterborough United, weighed in on the issue during a TalkSPORT interview.
MacAnthony expressed his doubts about any significant action being taken against the Premier League winners.Reflecting on the 2006 Calciopoli scandal, where Juventus had a trophy taken away as a result of match-fixing, he stated that he was unsure of what the exact penalties might be in this case.
He noted that while a deduction of two points per charge might seem appropriate, he finds the media’s predictions of relegation or title stripping to be exaggerated and unrealistic.
MacAnthony highlighted the absurdity of trying to alter the past by taking away previously won titles, calling such measures objectionable.
MacAnthony also addressed the broader issue of financial manipulation in football, noting that everyone in the sport is trying to find ways to work around the system in order to strengthen their teams.
He clarified that he was not accusing anyone, including Manchester City, of breaking the rules, but emphasized that the Premier League, like other leagues, is not immune to attempts at rule-bending.
MacAnthony urged patience, saying that the situation should be allowed to play out fully before any conclusions are drawn.
He suggested that Manchester City, given their success over the past decade, have become an easy target for media scrutiny and sensationalist coverage.
In addition to the financial fair play allegations, questions are also being raised about the future of City’s manager, Pep Guardiola.
Guardiola, who is in the final year of his contract with the club, has been with Manchester City for more than six years.
MacAnthony speculated that, like Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp, Guardiola might be considering taking a break from football.
He pointed out that the pressures of modern football, especially in the post-COVID era, have taken a toll on the mental and physical health of players and managers alike.
MacAnthony suggested that it might be wise for City to offer Guardiola a sabbatical, allowing him to take a year off while the club temporarily hands over managerial duties to one of his assistants. This would enable Guardiola to return refreshed after a much-needed break.
Looking ahead, Manchester City are preparing to defend their Premier League title after a historic run of success, having won four consecutive league championships. As part of their pre-season preparations, they have lined up friendly matches in the United States against teams like AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea, before starting their Premier League campaign on August 18 with a match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Despite the looming allegations and potential challenges, City remains focused on their upcoming season and the continued defense of their title.
