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Premier League Commission Finds City Sham Contracts, Urges Relegation

By Drooid · Oct 5, 2026, 2:33 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Premier League commission found Manchester City used sham contracts to inflate revenue by over £900 million, prompting relegation calls.
Manchester City denied wrongdoing and called the verdict “material errors.”
Manchester City appealed the decision on Thursday.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch, former Leeds manager, said “everyone knew” and urged relegation.
Marsch noted Leeds posted a £5.5 million profit versus City’s £2.4 million profit and questioned the £52 million Haaland fee.

History

Historical Context

UEFA adopted Financial Fair Play regulations in September 2009, applying them from the 2011-12 season to curb clubs spending beyond their income. The rules followed a period when Premier League debt reached £3.3 billion in 2008-09 and clubs like Portsmouth faced administration. Today the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules echo that framework as Manchester City confronts new charges.

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Story summary

Premier League commission found Manchester City used sham contracts to inflate revenue by over £900 million, prompting relegation calls.
Manchester City denied wrongdoing and called the verdict “material errors.”
Manchester City appealed the decision on Thursday.
Canada coach Jesse Marsch, former Leeds manager, said “everyone knew” and urged relegation.
Marsch noted Leeds posted a £5.5 million profit versus City’s £2.4 million profit and questioned the £52 million Haaland fee.

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