FFP Row: Manchester City expelled from all competitions?

Reigning Premier League champions Manchester City are under increasing threat of severe sanctions as a hearing into their alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules progresses. With over 130 charges against them, the case is shaping up to be one of the most significant in English football, with potential consequences that could shake the sport to its core.

The hearing has finally begun and may take months to conclude, leaving City in a prolonged period of uncertainty. However, reports suggest that many of the club's Premier League rivals are pushing for the harshest penalties, fearing that a one-off points deduction would be insufficient to address the scale of the alleged infractions.

What could be the most severe punishment?

The most severe option on the table could involve expelling Manchester City from the Premier League entirely. Such a dramatic move would have far-reaching implications for the club beyond just league matches. According to Clause 31 of the FA Cup rules, if a club is removed from its league or its fixtures are suspended, the Professional Game Board (PGB) has the authority to also remove that club from the FA Cup competition.

Similarly, the EFL Cup (Carabao Cup) rules stipulate that only members of the Premier League or the English Football League are eligible to participate. As such, being expelled from the Premier League could see Manchester City barred from all domestic competitions, a devastating blow to the club’s ambitions.

Will Manchester City be able to participate in the Champions League?

The situation becomes even more complicated when considering European and international tournaments. Manchester City is set to participate in the UEFA Champions League, which operates under separate rules from those of domestic competitions.

However, should they face expulsion in England, their future in European tournaments may also come into question. Additionally, City is slated to compete in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S. next summer, and their participation in that tournament could be jeopardized if they are banned from all competitions in England.

As the case continues, the potential fallout grows more daunting, with English football itself possibly heading towards chaos. With no resolution expected for months, the footballing world will be watching closely to see how the saga unfolds, and whether Manchester City will face the toughest punishments in Premier League history.