Manchester City have provided an update on the long-running Premier League charges in their latest annual report.
The club is facing 115 charges relating to alleged breaches of financial rules between 2009 and 2018.
An independent hearing into the case concluded around a year ago.
However, no verdict has yet been made public, leaving the football world waiting for clarity.
Decision Timeline Remains Unclear
Speculation around the timing of the decision has intensified in recent months.
Last month, former financial adviser Stefan Borson suggested a verdict could be imminent.
“I think Simon thinks it’s going to come out next year, I think it still could come out before Christmas,” he told talkSPORT.
“The decision has been imminent for quite some time, there’s not a lot that they can do. It doesn’t take that long.”
Despite those claims, Manchester City’s annual report indicates the process is still ongoing.
Club Statement in Annual Report
In the report, City reiterated their confidence in their position.
It stated: “In response to the charges, the Club issued a public statement that it welcomes the review of this matter by an independent Commission, to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position.”
The report added that the review remains unfinished.
“As at the date of publishing these financial statements, the independent Commission is still in the process of reviewing the matter.”
Financial Stability Maintained
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the charges, City stressed that the case does not threaten the club’s immediate financial position.
The directors confirmed they believe the club can continue to operate as normal.
“Based on their evaluation of the Group’s prospects and viability, the Directors confirm that they have a reasonable expectation that the Group will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due within the 12 months following the approval of these financial statements.”
As a result, the accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis.
Delays Not Attributed to Either Party
Borson has also addressed criticism over the length of the process.
He believes neither Manchester City nor the Premier League is responsible for the delays.
“Well, look, nobody knows because even the parties themselves expected to have been told by now,” he said.
“All the lawyers are surprised there is no decision at this stage, and that’s on both sides.”
“I’ll tell you who’s holding it up – the panel making the decision. They hold the pen.”
Mystery Surrounding the Panel
According to Borson, little is known about the make-up or guidance given to the commission.
“We know the long list – you can cobble it together from all of the people on the judicial panel – but we don’t know who is on that list.”
He suggested the panel likely includes legal and financial experts.
However, he added that the lack of transparency may be contributing to the prolonged timeline.
As Manchester City, the Premier League and fans await the outcome, the case remains one of the most significant and closely watched financial disputes in English football history.
