Manchester City ‘knew of guilty verdict before £520m transfer spree’

Manchester City were reportedly told in July that an independent commission had found them guilty of more than 100 alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules, yet the club went on to spend more than 520 million euros on nine new players, according to ESPN.

The claims have emerged after the Premier League champions’ ruling was formally announced last Friday. Among the club’s most expensive signings were Elliot Anderson, bought from Nottingham Forest for 135 million euros, and Enzo Fernandez, who joined from Chelsea for 145 million euros.

The Anderson transfer has attracted particular scrutiny. Bild, citing ESPN, reported that Manchester City’s management had been informed of the commission’s decision as early as July.

According to the reports, an agreement for Anderson was reached on 2 July, with the transfer formally signed on 23 July. The deal therefore proceeded despite the club having been notified of the adverse ruling before it was made public.

Manchester City completed the signing of Fernandez in September. The ruling was leaked shortly afterwards.

The club declined to comment when contacted by ESPN. The Premier League also referred to “special and confidential procedures” and refused to provide further details.

There has been no apparent sporting impact so far. Enzo Maresca’s side have won their opening five Premier League matches and sit top of the table, three points clear of defending champions Arsenal.

Manchester City reject allegations

Manchester City continue to strongly deny the allegations. Since the charges became public in February 2023, the club has maintained its innocence and said it would appeal any guilty ruling.

In a statement, Manchester City said: “The Premier League proceedings are still ongoing. Some key elements remain outstanding and remain highly confidential.”

The club added: “Manchester City’s position remains unchanged and is consistent with the club’s statement issued in February 2023.”

Manchester City have also indirectly questioned the Premier League’s impartiality. The club said it had trusted the process for eight years and had expected league officials to act “independently, with integrity and without external influence”.

The commission’s ruling has therefore brought renewed focus to the timing of the club’s transfer activity, with the reported notification in July preceding both the official announcement and some of Manchester City’s major signings.