Kaveh Solhekol recently fielded a series of viewer questions about Manchester City after an independent commission concluded that the club had breached Premier League financial regulations. Although the commission found City guilty on every count, the club continues to deny any wrongdoing and has announced its intention to appeal the decision.
The deadline for filing an appeal is Friday, 2 October, and the subsequent process has generated a lot of speculation about timelines, possible sanctions, and the broader implications for the club, its players, and English football as a whole. In a live segment on Sky Sports News, Solhekol addressed each query, offering insight into how the appeal might unfold, what punishments could be on the table, and how the situation could affect the club’s standing in the Premier League, the EFL, and even the ownership structure. Below is a comprehensive recap of the discussion, expanded with additional context to clarify the legal and sporting framework that surrounds this unprecedented case. **How long will the appeal take?** RhydonDN wondered whether the appeal could drag on for months or even years.
Solhekol explained that, under the Premier League’s own timetable, City must lodge its appeal by the 2 October deadline. Once lodged, the league aims to wrap up the appeal within roughly 12 weeks, targeting a decision before Christmas. After that, a final judgment is expected within 30 days, meaning the outcome should be known in the new year and well before the season concludes. The appeal itself will be heard by a fresh three‑person panel, distinct from the original commission.
However, Solhekol warned that City could choose to challenge the Premier League’s process in the High Court, alleging procedural bias or a rigged system. A judicial review could extend the dispute for years, potentially delaying any final resolution indefinitely.
He also noted that the FA might launch its own inquiry to determine whether any of its regulations were breached, and that four clubs—Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham—have already signaled intent to sue City for compensation, with more clubs likely to follow once the league’s verdict is finalised. **Could the Premier League dock enough points to relegate City? Would the EFL accept them?** Josh asked whether the league could impose a points deduction so severe that City would be forced down to the Championship, and whether the EFL would welcome them. Solhekol clarified that a sanctions hearing is pending, and the same three individuals who delivered the original judgment will decide the punishment.
Their options include expulsion from the Premier League, a points deduction, a transfer ban, or a hefty fine. If the sanction is a points deduction that results in relegation, the EFL would likely admit City, given the commercial and sporting interest they bring. In the case of outright expulsion, City would have to apply for admission to the EFL, and the 72 member clubs would vote on the matter.
While there is no legal barrier preventing the EFL from accepting them, the decision would hinge on a collective vote, though Solhekol believes the league would be inclined to admit such a high‑profile club. **What if the EFL refuses entry?** Jonty’s question about a possible refusal was met with a straightforward answer: technically the EFL could reject City, but it would be an unusual move given the financial and fan‑base benefits the club would bring to the lower divisions.
**Parachute payments after a points‑deduction relegation?** Ash wanted to know whether City would still receive parachute payments if they were relegated via a points penalty. Solhekol responded that there is no reason to withhold those payments; any club dropping from the Premier League, regardless of the cause, receives the standard parachute package to help smooth the transition to a lower revenue environment. **Could the owners be forced to sell, or face criminal charges?** The "Owners test" raised concerns about the owners’ charter and potential criminal liability for submitting fraudulent accounts. Solhekol explained that an Independent Football Regulator now exists and could, after the process concludes, consider removing directors or even forcing a change of ownership.
However, City maintains that they will be cleared of all allegations, and any such drastic action remains speculative at this stage. PolarBear asked a similar question, and Solhekol reiterated that while the regulator does have the authority to compel a sale, it is far from certain that this will happen. **Why were only the 2009/10‑2017/18 seasons investigated?** Gooner2526 wondered why later seasons have not been examined. Solhekol noted that the evidence presented to the tribunal was limited to those years, largely because the material originated from a Portuguese hacker, Rui Pinto, who leaked emails to German outlet Der Spiegel.
Those leaks sparked UEFA’s and subsequently the Premier League’s investigations, but the tribunal only received documentation up to 2018. **Is there a risk of criminal or tax investigations?** Dan asked about the possibility of corporate fraud charges.
Solhekol warned that filing false financial statements can breach the UK Fraud Act 2006, exposing the club to criminal prosecution. Additionally, HM Revenue & Customs might investigate alleged off‑the‑books payments, which could implicate unpaid National Insurance and tax liabilities. The National Economic Crime Centre could also become involved.
Nonetheless, City continues to assert its innocence and expects to be cleared. **Can players terminate contracts if the club is punished severely?** MattC questioned whether a relegation or other severe sanction would allow players to walk away from their contracts.
Solhekol explained that while contracts cannot simply be ripped up, players could seek legal advice and potentially argue that they were misled about the club’s financial health at the time of signing. If successful, a contract could be terminated, but each case would depend on the specific clauses and the evidence presented. **Why was the hearing held in private?** Matt H asked why the proceedings were not open to the public. Solhekol responded that the Premier League operates as a private association of 20 member clubs, each bound by its own rulebook.
Sports lawyers have argued for transparency, but the league treats these matters as confidential, limiting external scrutiny. Overall, the situation remains fluid.
The appeal deadline is looming, the sanctions hearing will determine the immediate fate of the club, and a cascade of potential legal actions—from high‑court challenges to tax investigations—could extend the drama well beyond the football calendar. Fans, clubs, and regulators alike will be watching closely as the next chapters unfold.