Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has publicly called for a swift resolution to the ongoing legal battle between Manchester City and the Premier League over 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations, branding the prolonged process as detrimental to football. Speaking on The Overlap podcast with Gary Neville, Levy emphasized the need for closure, stating, “It’s going through a process which I think has gone on for far too long. It needs to be brought, for the good of the game, to a conclusion one way or another.”
The charges against Manchester City, first announced in February 2023, span a nine-year period from 2009 to 2018. They include allegations of failing to provide accurate financial information, breaching UEFA’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, and not cooperating with Premier League investigations. The case, which was heard by an independent panel at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in London from September to December 2024, has yet to deliver a verdict, leaving the football world in limbo. A decision might not arrive until October 2025, potentially during an international break, further prolonging the uncertainty.
Letting Feelings Known
Levy’s comments reflect growing frustration among Premier League stakeholders. He expressed regret that the issue could not be resolved internally, noting, “It’s unfortunate that we haven’t been able to resolve things internally rather than the recourse of the lawyers, who are earning a lot of money out of this.” His remarks echo sentiments from others in the football community, including Gary Neville, who previously labeled the delay a “disgrace” and an “absolute stain to the game.”
Sanctions Remain Unclear
Manchester City have consistently denied the allegations, asserting they possess “irrefutable evidence” to prove their innocence. The club’s confidence is evident in their recent business dealings, including a £1 billion, 10-year kit sponsorship with Puma and a long-term contract extension for star striker Erling Haaland. These moves suggest City expect to avoid severe punishments, such as points deductions or expulsion, though the range of potential sanctions remains unclear.
Challenges for Owners
Levy’s intervention is notable given his reputation for measured public statements. His call for resolution aligns with broader concerns about the integrity and sustainability of the game. He also touched on related issues, such as the risks posed by multi-club ownership and associated party transactions, which he described as “one of the biggest threats” to football due to the potential for financial abuse.
