What Happened?
Manchester City, the current Premier League champions, are facing 115 charges of violating financial fair play (FFP) regulations.
Under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), other clubs like Everton and Nottingham Forest have already been penalized with point deductions for similar offenses.
What Did MacAnthony Say?
EFL chairman and Peterborough United owner, Darragh MacAnthony, expressed doubts about Manchester City facing harsh penalties.
Drawing a comparison to Juventus losing a title during the 2006 Calciopoli scandal, he told TalkSPORT, “I’m not sure what the consequences will be for such charges.
Two points per charge seems fair, but talk of ‘relegation’ or ‘stripping titles’ feels unrealistic to me. Unlike what happened in Italy, you can’t change the past.”
MacAnthony also noted that clubs, including those in the Premier League, often look for ways to work within the system.
He added, “Man City might be an easy media target, but we should wait for the process to unfold before jumping to conclusions.”
What About Guardiola?
Pep Guardiola’s future at Manchester City is being questioned as he enters the final year of his contract.
MacAnthony suggested, “I can’t speak for Pep, but after six or more years at the club, he might feel the need for a break, like Jurgen Klopp.
This game is exhausting, especially with the pressures brought by COVID. If I were City, I’d encourage Pep to take a year off, let his assistant take over temporarily, and return refreshed.”
Next Steps
Manchester City, who have claimed four consecutive Premier League titles, are continuing their pre-season preparations with friendlies against AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea in the U.S. before starting their title defense at Stamford Bridge on August 18.
