Manchester City are preparing for the next stage of their long-running Premier League financial case after an independent commission reportedly found the club guilty on 114 of 115 charges.

The reported outcome, which relates to alleged financial-rule breaches covering nine seasons from 2009 to 2018, does not yet bring the disciplinary process to an end. No punishment has been announced, while City are expected to challenge the findings through an appeal.

The case has been one of the most extensive regulatory proceedings in Premier League history. The charges include allegations concerning the accuracy of the club’s financial information, payments involving players and managers, Profitability and Sustainability Rules, UEFA regulations and cooperation with the league’s investigation.

City have consistently denied wrongdoing. Responding to reports of the commission’s findings, a club spokesperson said the Premier League process remained ongoing and that significant elements were still to be completed under strict confidentiality.

The club also reiterated its position that it had followed due process throughout the investigation and expected the regulatory process to be conducted independently and fairly.

With the reported verdict now emerging, attention is shifting towards the appeal process and any eventual sanction. The Premier League’s disciplinary framework gives an independent commission a range of options, meaning the consequences, if any, will depend on the final outcome of the proceedings.

The reported findings could therefore mark the beginning of another significant phase in the dispute rather than its conclusion. City are expected to use the available appeal process, leaving the final disciplinary consequences unresolved for now.

Do you think Man City can escape this case?