Manchester City's long-running financial fair play dispute with the Premier League could finally reach a conclusion this summer, according to football finance expert Stefan Borson. The former City advisor suggested a verdict is likely to arrive in June 2025, potentially ending an 18-month waiting period since the independent commission concluded hearings in late 2024.
Timeline of the FFP Investigation
The Premier League initiated its probe into Man City in January 2022 after identifying over 100 alleged breaches of financial regulations spanning the 2009-2018 period. The governing body had spent four years investigating the club's conduct before referring the case to an independent commission, shifting responsibility away from traditional Premier League adjudication. Since then, the process has extended far beyond initial expectations, creating frustration across the football community.
Borson told talkSPORT that the timeline has now entered what he termed "ridiculous territory." Speaking candidly about the delays, he stated: "There's no justification now from how long it takes to write this up. This is now ridiculous territory—18 months to write up a decision in a private arbitration is clearly ridiculous." The finance expert did offer some reassurance, noting he had detected subtle signals suggesting the panel is nearing completion of its written judgment.
Potential Sanctions and Club Response
Pep Guardiola's side faces potentially severe consequences if found guilty, including substantial fines, transfer restrictions, points deductions, or even Premier League expulsion. However, City have consistently maintained their innocence throughout the investigation and have continued normal operations in the transfer market without awaiting the outcome. The club's legal representatives have suggested confidence in their defense, though the extended timeline has fueled speculation about possible settlement negotiations.
The case has divided opinion among football figures, with Gary Neville recently suggesting City could be cleared of every charge—a position that prompted strong disagreement from Ian Wright and others who view the investigation as essential for competitive integrity. A June verdict would provide clarity heading into the 2025-26 season, allowing all parties to move forward decisively.
