Manchester City could face a massive points deduction if their appeal against the Premier League’s financial charges fails, but a potential obstacle has emerged over how any punishment would be enforced beyond the top flight.
Reports suggest the Premier League could impose a points deduction severe enough to guarantee City’s relegation to the Championship, followed by another deduction in the following season to keep them in the second tier for an additional campaign. A substantial fine could also be imposed over alleged financial breaches between 2009 and 2018.
However, the plan may require cooperation from the English Football League (EFL), which operates the divisions below the Premier League. As a separate organisation, the EFL is not automatically obliged to enforce a punishment imposed by the Premier League, potentially complicating efforts to keep City out of the top flight for a prolonged period.
An even more severe scenario involving relegation to League Two has also been discussed, although it would present further complications. No final punishment has been confirmed, and City have appealed the independent commission’s findings, maintaining their innocence.
Despite the uncertainty off the pitch, City have made a strong start to the season, winning all seven of their opening Premier League matches and sitting three points clear at the top.
