Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness believes Manchester City “would settle for a penalty” in their FFP case, but he also acknowledges that the saga could “drag on for years.”
The investigation into alleged financial mismanagement at the Etihad Stadium is well underway.
The Premier League champions face between 115 and 130 charges, with the inquiry delving into their financial dealings as far back as 2009.
Speculation is rampant about what could happen next, with suggestions that City could face expulsion from the Premier League – and possibly the entire Football League – if found guilty of serious offenses.
However, City remains steadfast in their defense, maintaining that they have done nothing wrong and continue to fight the allegations.
A final ruling is still some way off. Wyness, speaking to Football Insider, speculated on what could unfold behind closed doors.
He suggested that City might be willing to accept a penalty to bring an end to the protracted case, which has been a significant distraction for all parties involved.
Wyness said: “I think the Premier League definitely want to get this over with and learn better lessons on how to regulate the game.
“Man City can’t keep fighting these battles.
“PR wise and from a global public image point of view, they know they’ve got to put this to bed.
“Everyone loves the football they’ve been playing, but there is a cloud looming over them.
“It’s in everyone’s interest to get this solved, it’s gone on for so long. But if there’s a settlement, there has to be a clear reason.
“It could be that both sides have got very good cases.
“I hope common sense will prevail.
“I think Man City would settle and take a penalty.
“I’d love to be a fly on the wall in these hearings.
“Nevertheless, it’s all going to come out in the wash – and hopefully it won’t drag on for years, as it may well do.”
Manchester City’s legal case could extend well into 2025 and beyond if they find the ruling unacceptable and file subsequent appeals.
For now, Pep Guardiola’s team remains focused on securing a fifth consecutive Premier League title, along with domestic cup triumphs and the pursuit of prestigious European honours
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