Premier League chief insists Man City 115-charge case is ‘not necessarily a topic of conversation with other clubs’ as wait for verdict drags on

The 115-charge case against Manchester City continues to rumble on with no end in sight.

However, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters insists the case is not dominating conversations with rival clubs.

Man City’s hearing over alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations concluded in December 2024.

The independent panel has still not delivered its decision. The club denies all wrongdoing.

Masters said the case was not necessarily a top topic of conversation when he speaks to clubs, pointing out that plenty of other issues are occupying their attention as the new season approaches.

The Premier League chief was also asked about the length of the process, having previously admitted to being frustrated at how long the case has taken.

His latest response offered little hope of an imminent conclusion.

“The process is the process,” Masters said (via the Daily Mail). “It will resolve itself.”

He added that he could not discuss either the substance or timing of the case, insisting the verdict would arrive ‘as long as it takes’.

Competition integrity is being compromised

Masters’ comments will do little to ease the frustration surrounding a case of enormous significance to English football.

To say that City’s 115 charges are not high on the agenda because clubs have lots of other things to talk about feels like downplaying an issue that could have major consequences for the Premier League.

Four clubs have reportedly reserved the right to seek compensation if City are found guilty, while the outcome could potentially involve historic sporting and financial penalties.

The wait is ridiculous. City were charged more than three years ago and their hearing finished in December 2024. Almost two years later, the outcome has not been publicised.

Masters may insist the process must take its course, but supporters and clubs deserve better. At some point, accountability requires an answer.