Premier League chief executive Richard Masters comments on Manchester City’s 115 charges | OneFootball

Richard Masters – chief executive of the Premier League – has issued his latest comments surrounding Manchester City and the club’s 115 charges.

What began as 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations relating to a period between 2009 and 2018 has since evolved, with further updates taking the total number of accusations to around 130.

At the heart of the matter are claims that Manchester City did not provide accurate financial information to the league, particularly concerning sponsorship income and the reporting of managerial and player remuneration.

City have consistently and strongly denied any wrongdoing, previously stating they possess extensive and compelling evidence to refute allegations, and have welcomed the opportunity to present their case before an independent commission.

The formal hearing, overseen by a three-person panel, concluded in December 2024 after approximately 12 weeks of proceedings at London’s International Dispute Resolution Centre. But more than a year on, no official verdict has been delivered, fuelling speculation as uncertainty remains over when a final decision will be announced and the consequences of such a decision.

Speaking at the Financial Times Business of Football Summit in London, the Premier League’s chief executive officer Richard Masters was quizzed for the latest surrounding Manchester City’s 115 charges.

“I simply can’t comment. Having spent three years not commenting, I’m not going to start now,” said Masters.

He continued, “Stepping aside from that [specific case], any regulator wants its judicial system to be efficient and work swiftly. That’s about as far as I can go.”

Masters’ refusal to expand is consistent with the Premier League’s stance throughout the process, with officials repeatedly stressing the confidential and independent nature of the proceedings.

Debate over potential sanctions has intensified, with some analysts suggesting that should the most severe allegations be upheld, a substantial points deduction could be imposed – potentially one of the largest in Premier League history.

Earlier talk of expulsion from the top flight has cooled, with many observers noting that the charges fall under Premier League jurisdiction, making a heavy points penalty a more plausible outcome than enforced relegation to the English Football League.