Report: Manchester City to be relegated if….

Manchester City is confronting the possibility of relegation from the Premier League as a hearing regarding 115 alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations is set to begin in early September.

These charges, which date back to 2009, overshadow the club’s impressive achievements under manager Pep Guardiola, who has led City to 15 major trophies since 2016.

The potential consequences for Manchester City are significant. Journalist Martyn Ziegler reports that, if the most severe charges are confirmed, the club could face either relegation or a substantial points deduction. This follows penalties imposed on other clubs like Everton and Nottingham Forest, which were docked points for less complex breaches.

According to *TeamTalk*, the hearing is expected to span over 10 weeks, with a verdict likely in early January 2024. In response to the charges, Manchester City has initiated its own legal action against the Premier League concerning associated party transaction rules, with the case scheduled to be heard soon.

The ongoing legal proceedings have impacted betting odds, with the probability of City being relegated this season decreasing from 100/1 to 28/1, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Amidst this uncertainty, Manchester City captain Kyle Walker remains focused on maintaining the team’s strong performance on the field. Speaking to BBC Radio Five before the latest developments, Walker expressed confidence in City’s potential to secure a fifth consecutive Premier League title.

“I wouldn’t say it’s an ego, but we’ve done this now four times in a row – this is our trophy to lose,” Walker said.

“For us to go and do four in a row off the back of a Treble was a great achievement. Now, why can’t we go and do five in a row? That’s the motivation we have to create from us as a group of players, from me as a captain,” he added.