“If City are found guilty of the most serious charges" - Journalist makes Manchester City relegation threat as lawyers fight out 115 charges

Manchester City could be relegated from the Premier League if found guilty of breaking the FIFA Financial Fair Play rules, according to journalist Sami Mokbel. The English champions are facing 115 charges of financial breaches, which is being investigated by the Premier League.

There have been accusations of financial misinformation over a period of nine years, starting from 2009. The Cityzens also failed to cooperate with subsequent investigations, which ultimately led to what is being called the 'Trial of the century.'

Manchester City have denied all charges but a verdict is not expected until early 2025. However, it is now believed that they could be booted out from the top tier of English football if found guilty. It has also been reported that the Cityzens could be removed from other competitions as well, including the Champions League.

In his column for The Daily Mail, Mokbel added that multiple stars are already keeping their options open amid the uncertainties surrounding the club.

“Representatives of Manchester City’s star-studded squad have begun exploring their options amid the looming threat of enforced relegation. If City are found guilty of the most serious charges, the sanctions open to the Premier League could see the champions lose their top-flight status," wrote Mokbel.

He continued:

“And, aware of the impact of such a punishment, agents are trying to cover every eventuality to ensure their players are protected.”

Interestingly, Pep Guardiola's contract at the Etihad expires at the end of this season and a renewal could depend on the outcome of the investigation.

Could Manchester City lose their top stars next summer?

Manchester City have an enviable squad at their disposal and it is not a wonder that they have won multiple trophies of late, including a record four consecutive Premier League titles. However, the rest of Europe will be following their situation with interest.

There are many players in their squad already wanted at various clubs. Rodri, who is the front-runner for the Ballon d'Or this year, has admirers at Real Madrid. Los Blancos also have their eyes on Erling Haaland, who remains heavily linked with a move away from the Etihad next summer.

The Norwegian has admirers at Barcelona as well, with the club apparently plotting to prise him away at the end of this season. The likes of Bernardo Silva, Jeremy Doku, Phil Foden, and Josko Gvardiol won't be short of options either if they decide to leave. As such, should City lose the trial, it could initiate a transfer merry-go-round in 2025.