UEFA President Defends Decision to Expel Manchester City Over FFP Violations: Premier League Investigation Imminent
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin asserts the correctness of expelling Manchester City from European competition for Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches, emphasizing the governing body’s confidence in its decision.
The club’s two-year ban and £25 million fine in 2020 were later overturned by CAS, but scrutiny from the Premier League now looms.
Acknowledging Supporters’ Frustration: Ceferin Understands Concerns Over Prolonged Case
In recognizing the frustration among fans and rival clubs regarding the extended duration of the case, Ceferin empathizes with the sentiments surrounding the prolonged investigation.
The Treble-winning club faced 115 alleged financial regulation breaches, with the Premier League initiating an investigation last season.
UEFA Chief Silent on Premier League Investigation, Maintains Confidence in Initial Decision
Ceferin refrains from commenting on the ongoing Premier League investigation into Manchester City’s financial practices but remains steadfast in UEFA’s conviction.
Despite the CAS reversal, Ceferin expresses trust in the initial decision made by UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body four years ago.
Ceferin’s Assertion: “We Know We Were Right” Despite CAS Overturning Ban
In an interview with The Telegraph, Ceferin confidently states, “We know we were right,” defending UEFA’s original decision.
He emphasizes that UEFA would not make such decisions without confidence in their correctness, expressing trust in the independent body’s judgment.
City’s Ban Overturned by CAS: Premier League Alleges Delay Tactics in Investigation
Manchester City, consistently denying any wrongdoing, had their ban overturned by CAS due to unproven accusations and time-barred evidence.
The Premier League, accusing City of using delaying tactics, has set a trial date for the investigation into the club’s alleged financial irregularities.