Premier League Chief: Legal Battles Causing ‘Uncertainty and Frustration’ for Top Teams

Premier League CEO Richard Masters has acknowledged that the ongoing legal cases involving Manchester City and other top-flight clubs have led to “uncertainty and frustration” as the new season approaches.

Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, are facing an independent commission’s ruling on 115 charges related to alleged financial breaches. Additionally, Leicester City and Everton are under scrutiny for potential violations of the league’s profitability and sustainability rules (PSR).

When asked if these unresolved financial matters would overshadow the 2024/25 season, Masters told Sky Sports: “It does matter, and I understand it creates uncertainty and some frustration, but there’s no better alternative than enforcing the rules that everyone agreed to at the start of each season. Clubs have made a commitment to abide by these rules, and the Premier League must uphold them.

“Though it may cause some frustration, this process is essential to preserving the integrity and competitiveness of the Premier League. That’s my responsibility, and it’s a role I intend to continue fulfilling.”

Since the charges were brought against Manchester City in February of last year—a matter the club strongly denies—they have gone on to win the Premier League title twice and are now aiming for a record fifth consecutive title. Reports indicate that the hearing into City’s case might commence in September, but Masters refrained from specifying a timeline.

“I believe it needs to be resolved,” he stated. “However, it’s not within our control. The independent panel is managing the process, including its timing, and we must allow them to proceed.”

The charges against City involve alleged failures to report accurate financial information and to submit details of manager and player pay within the relevant contracts. They also concern the club’s obligation as a Premier League member to comply with UEFA’s financial regulations and the league’s profitability and sustainability guidelines. Furthermore, City is accused of not cooperating with the Premier League’s investigation, which began in December 2018.

Everton and Nottingham Forest were penalized with points deductions last season for PSR breaches, and these rules continue to be enforced, requiring clubs to limit their financial losses to no more than £105 million ($134 million) over three seasons.

When asked if there might be charges related to the 2023-24 PSR assessment period, Masters responded: “I can’t speculate on that. Decisions can only be made once audited accounts are available, and that process typically starts toward the end of the year.”