Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that a decision on the club's alleged financial misconduct charges could be announced as early as February.
These charges, spanning from 2009 to 2018, accuse the club of providing inaccurate financial disclosures, especially regarding sponsorship revenues and player salaries.
On December 6, the Citizens concluded their three-month legal dispute with Premier League authorities in London, firmly denying all accusations of financial misconduct, a stance they have consistently maintained throughout the investigation.
If City are found guilty of some of the more serious charges, they could face significant financial penalties, points deductions, or even relegation.
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Guardiola drops hint about potential verdict date
While the investigation proceedings have recently concluded, no definitive timeline for the remainder of the process has been set.
Manchester City fans have been anxious, but Guardiola, who is deeply involved in the situation, may have provided the clearest hint yet about when his side will learn their fate.
In his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Aston Villa, Guardiola responded to questions about whether the uncertainty surrounding the case could impact January transfer window signings by simply stating: "I don't know."
He added: "It's going to happen in winter time. I don't know what's going to happen. I know the people are expecting that but I don't know. In February, March, will be the sentence."
If a decision were to be made in February, it would represent a much speedier judgement than previously expected, as initial discussions before the trial suggested that a verdict might not be reached until the end of the 2024-25 Premier League season.
However, reports indicate that whichever side loses the case is likely to appeal the decision, which could further extend the duration of the proceedings.
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Guardiola comments on transfer window activity
Amid the ongoing dispute, Guardiola and his team must stay focused on the task at hand, as they currently sit fifth in the Premier League table after securing just one win in their last 11 games.
During his interview, the Man City boss expressed confidence in his squad, indicating that transfer decisions will be made by the club while confirming that his primary focus remains on getting injured players back to full fitness.
"What I want is my players back. I have the same feeling that the squad is really good, it's not about good or bad players but I want the players back," Guardiola said.
"What happens in winter [in the January transfer window] or the end of the season, the club will decide what is best for the team."
The Premier League champions will end the year with a Boxing Day clash at home against Everton before a trip to the King Power Stadium to face Leicester City on December 29.
Devesh Jaganath
