Kaveh Solhekol recently tackled a flood of fan inquiries about Manchester City after an independent commission concluded that the club had breached Premier League financial regulations in every charge. City continue to assert that they did nothing wrong and have announced their intention to appeal the decision, with a deadline of Friday, October 2 to lodge their notice of appeal. During a live interview on Sky Sports News, Solhekol, the chief correspondent for the network, addressed a broad spectrum of questions ranging from the expected timeline for an appeal verdict, the possibility of a points deduction that could force relegation to the English Football League (EFL), the fate of player contracts, and the role of the newly‑created Independent Football Regulator. Below is a comprehensive recap of his answers, expanded with additional context to give readers a clearer picture of the unfolding saga.
**How long might the appeal process last?** RhydonDN asked whether the appeal could stretch over months or even years. Solhekol explained that, under the Premier League’s own timetable, City must file their appeal by the October 2 deadline. Once filed, the league aims to wrap up the appeal procedure by Christmas, roughly a twelve‑week window. After that period, a judgment is expected within thirty days, meaning an appeal decision should be handed down early in the new year and well before the season concludes.
He noted that the appeal will be heard by a new 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 unfairness.
If they pursue that route, the litigation could extend for years, potentially dragging the whole matter out far beyond the football calendar. He also mentioned that the Football Association (FA) might open its own investigation to determine whether any of its rules were breached by the club or its staff. Meanwhile, four clubs—Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur—have already reserved the right to seek compensation from City, and additional clubs are expected to follow once the league’s process finishes.
**Could the Premier League deduct enough points to guarantee City’s relegation?** Josh wondered whether the league could strip City of the maximum points they could earn this season, effectively ensuring a drop to the EFL, and whether the EFL would accept them into the Championship. Solhekol clarified that a sanctions hearing will decide the exact punishment.
The same three individuals who sat on the original commission will now determine the sanction, which could range from expulsion from the Premier League, a points deduction, a transfer ban, or a hefty fine. If the penalty is a points deduction that results in relegation, it is likely that the EFL would admit City, given the commercial and sporting interest they would generate. Conversely, if City were expelled outright, the EFL would have to consider a formal application for admission, and the 72 member clubs would vote on whether to welcome them. Solhekol believes the EFL would be inclined to accept City because of the massive fan base and revenue they bring.
**Can the EFL refuse City entry if they are expelled?** Jonty asked whether the EFL could block City from joining its league system. Solhekol answered that, technically, the EFL could reject them, but he sees little reason why it would do so.
The club’s stature, global following, and financial clout make it a valuable addition to any division, and most stakeholders would likely favour inclusion. **Would City still receive parachute payments if relegated by points deduction?** Ash queried whether City would be entitled to the standard parachute payments that cushion the financial impact of dropping from the Premier League. Solhekol responded that, as with any other relegated club, City would receive those payments automatically.
The parachute system is designed to help clubs adjust to reduced broadcasting revenue, not to punish them, so it would apply regardless of the reason for relegation. **What powers does the Independent Football Regulator have over ownership?** Several users, including Owners test and PolarBear, asked whether the regulator could force the current owners to sell the club or impose criminal charges for alleged fraudulent accounts.
Solhekol explained that the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) now has the authority to intervene in cases of serious misconduct. It could, for example, remove directors from their positions or require a change of ownership if it deems the club’s governance incompatible with the sport’s integrity.
However, Solhekol stressed that such drastic measures are still far off and would only occur after the primary investigations conclude and if clear evidence of wrongdoing emerges. **Why does the investigation focus only on the 2009/10‑2017/18 seasons?** Gooner2526 wondered why later seasons have not been examined. Solhekol noted that the evidence presented to the tribunal only covered up to the 2017/18 season. Much of that evidence originated from data leaked by Portuguese hacker Rui Pinto, who accessed City’s email servers and provided the material to German magazine Der Spiegel.
Those leaks sparked UEFA’s and the Premier League’s inquiries, but the tribunal’s remit was limited to the period for which they had concrete documentation. **Could the findings amount to corporate fraud and trigger criminal investigations?** Dan asked about the possibility of a criminal probe under the UK Fraud Act of 2006. Solhekol said that if the financial statements filed by the club were knowingly false, the club could face criminal charges.
He also mentioned that HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) might investigate tax and National Insurance irregularities, especially given the commission’s suggestion that City paid some staff off‑the‑books. Additionally, the National Economic Crime Centre could launch an inquiry into potential breaches of the Fraud Act. While City maintains that they have acted within the law and expect to be cleared, the seriousness of the allegations means that regulatory bodies will likely keep a close watch. **Do players have the right to terminate contracts if the club is punished severely?** MattC raised the issue of whether players could walk away from their contracts should City be relegated or expelled.
Solhekol explained that contract termination is not automatic; players would need to demonstrate that the club misrepresented material facts at the time of signing. If successful, they could seek legal redress and potentially void their agreements.
However, most contracts contain no explicit clause addressing such a scenario, and any action would require professional legal advice. **Why was the hearing held in private rather than in an open court?** Matt H questioned the secrecy surrounding the hearing, suggesting that a public court would provide transparency.
Solhekol replied that the Premier League’s internal processes are governed by its own rulebook, which treats disciplinary matters as private. The league argues that, as a private association of 20 clubs, it is entitled to conduct confidential hearings to protect sensitive commercial information. Sports lawyers have criticized this lack of openness, but the current framework favours privacy.
In summary, the appeal timeline is relatively short unless City escalates the matter to the High Court, in which case it could drag on for years. Potential sanctions range from points deductions to outright expulsion, each carrying different implications for the EFL and parachute payments. The Independent Football Regulator holds significant powers over club ownership, though any intervention remains speculative at this stage.
Finally, while criminal investigations are possible, they will depend on the outcomes of ongoing regulatory reviews.