UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin insists they were “right” to charge Manchester City over Financial Fair Play breaches.
Speaking during a recent interview, Ceferin maintains the correctness of UEFA in charging Manchester City over Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches, despite the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturning the decision in 2020.
He reiterated UEFA’s stance, emphasizing their belief in the legitimacy of the punishment imposed on the English club.
City appealed the initial decision, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned it, citing that most of the alleged breaches were not adequately established.
Ceferin, a seasoned trial lawyer, defended UEFA’s position, stating, “We know we were right. We wouldn’t decide if we didn’t think we were right.”
He drew on his legal experience, acknowledging the unpredictability of court outcomes but reaffirming the need to respect decisions within a serious democracy.
“I don’t want to speak about the case in England. But I trust that the decision of our independent body was correct. I didn’t enter into this decision,” Ceferin clarified, refraining from delving into specifics regarding the ongoing case in England.
Currently, Manchester City faces 115 charges from the Premier League related to breaching FFP rules. Richard Masters, the CEO of the Premier League, confirmed that a hearing date has been scheduled for the case.
Notably, Everton and Nottingham Forest have already faced repercussions this season, with Everton receiving a 10-point deduction.
The uncertainty looms over Manchester City as the timing for their case remains undisclosed.
Despite the impending hearing, the club continues its participation in the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the Champions League.
