Man City facing double points deduction as Premier League punishment leaks

Manchester City could face a double points deduction that may send them to the Championship if their appeal against the Premier League’s financial charges fails.

According to a report by Football London on Monday, 19 October 2026, sources familiar with the case believe the club could receive a substantial points deduction and financial penalty over alleged breaches of the league’s financial regulations.

City were found guilty of 114 alleged financial violations last month, covering the period between 2009 and 2018. The Premier League accused the club of “artificially inflating” their income through “sham” sponsorship arrangements.

However, the Manchester club have consistently denied wrongdoing and are appealing the independent panel’s findings. The outcome of that process will determine whether sanctions are imposed and how severe they could be.

According to the report, people close to the case believe the punishment could be severe enough to relegate City from the Premier League.

A further points deduction has also been suggested, potentially leaving the club facing another season in the second tier.

Although the English Football League would not automatically be required to enforce such a punishment, sources cited in the report believe it would probably comply.

Other possible sanctions reportedly under consideration include a transfer ban and the removal of titles won during the period under investigation. However, no final punishment has been confirmed, and City’s appeal remains ongoing.

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has also acknowledged uncertainty surrounding the case, revealing that he has received conflicting information about the possible outcome.

Speaking on talkSPORT on Monday, Keown said: “I’m hearing rumours that this will be all over in a few weeks and it won’t be nearly as bad as we think it might be. Maybe they get off with a big fine and we return to the football pitch.”

A final ruling is expected in early 2027, with the report indicating that the appeals process must be completed before sanctions can be imposed.

Meanwhile, City’s immediate attention remains on their performances on the pitch. Enzo Maresca’s side have made an impressive start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign, winning all seven of their opening matches to sit top of the table, three points ahead of defending champions Arsenal.

Adelebam feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com