The legal case against Manchester City regarding alleged financial irregularities may see a new development early next year. According to David Cogan, chairman of English soccer’s independent governing body, the hearing on the club’s appeal could take place from mid- to late January.

The Manchester club is accused of 114 violations of the Premier League’s financial regulations, which allegedly occurred between 2009 and 2018. The “Citizens” reject the allegations and insist they will defend their position before the independent committee investigating the case.

In an interview with the British newspaper *The Times*, David Cogan explained that the process could take about 12 weeks. He clarified, however, that its progress depends on the Premier League’s independent committee—composed of three retired lawyers—and not directly on the organization he heads.

The English league’s goal is to have the case resolved before the end of the season, although the final timeline will depend on how the proceedings unfold. According to the British media outlet, the regulations provide for a 12-week period to hear the appeal, which ends on December 18. From that point on, the committee will have an additional 30 days to issue its decision, though it is not certain that these specific deadlines will be met.

Cogan also referred to Manchester City’s belief that it has strong arguments to refute the charges. He emphasized, however, that it is still too early to assess whether the club’s defense strategy will succeed, pointing to early next year for further developments.

The future looks… uncertain

The issuance of the ruling on the appeal will not necessarily mean the end of the case. Any sanctions against Manchester City will be considered in a subsequent hearing, the decision of which may also be appealed by the English club.

At the same time, the independent regulatory body could consider taking action against specific individuals associated with the team’s ownership or management. Thus, although the coming months are expected to be decisive for the course of the case, the final outcome may be delayed beyond the initial ruling.

Meanwhile, Manchester City continues to maintain its innocence in one of the most significant financial cases the Premier League has ever faced.

*photo source: AP