Premier League CEO Richard Masters explains secrecy around Man City's 115 FFP charges

Premier League CEO Richard Masters congratulates Pep Guardiola on Manchester City winning the title in 2022
Premier League CEO Richard Masters congratulates Pep Guardiola on Manchester City winning the title in 2022 -Credit:Visionhaus/Getty Images


The Premier League's CEO, Richard Masters, has confirmed that he is bound by the league's regulations, which prevent him from disclosing further details about Manchester City's 115 Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges.

In February 2023, City were slapped with these breaches, which allegedly took place between 2009 and 2018. The bulk of the accusations centre around the club supposedly providing inaccurate financial information to the Premier League, particularly concerning payments made to players and managers.

The Etihad club have robustly refuted the charges levelled against them. Over the past year, the Blues' Premier League rivals have blasted the top flight for being perceived to be 'dragging their heels' on the matter.

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While FFP violations by Everton and Nottingham Forest have been identified, charged, and penalties handed out, City are still waiting for their case to be heard. The lack of transparency on how the case is progressing has caused frustration from all quarters.

However, in an interview with The Times, Masters shed light on the reason behind the apparent secrecy. "All we have said is that a date has been set for the hearing," he clarified. "We haven't said when that is.

"Our rulebook requires these commissions to be held in private, and everything to be confidential." Meanwhile, City maintained their dominance in the Premier League after a 3-1 triumph over West Ham United clinched their fourth consecutive title.

Arsenal were still in the race for the Premier League crown on the season's final day, but their hopes hinged on a slip-up from City. However, a double from Phil Foden and a goal from Rodri ensured that the trophy remained in Manchester.