How Arsene Wenger’s prophecy came true after the Premier League’s statement on Manchester City
An investigation spanning almost five years has found more than 100 alleged breaches over nine seasons, which could lead to a range of sanctions if the charges are proved.
The statement accuses City of not co-operating since the investigation started in December 2018 and says they breached rules requiring them to provide “accurate financial information that gives a true and fair view of the club’s financial position”.
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City deny any wrongdoing and have vowed to clear their name declaring in a statement that they “look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all.
In 2012 former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger previously warned the footballing authorities against allowing manipulation of their rules, after suggestions that City could use their sponsorship deal with Etihad in a bid to avoid Financial Fair Play sanctions.
“The original plans suggested sponsorship deals have to be at the level of the market price, but if clubs use unrealistic deals as a way to get around Financial Fair Play, it will make a mockery of the rules,” said Wenger.
“We need to make sure the rules are followed because they can be very good for the future of the game.
“And I am in favour of opening things up to more investment, which FFP does not allow for. The clubs that dominate Europe today are those that were built and made investments during an era where FFP did not exist. FFP prevents emerging clubs who want to invest from doing so. That is not normal.
“Controlling club management rigorously yes, verifying where funds are coming from, yes, but we need to encourage people to invest in football. FFP must become more flexible and facilitate investment.”
Source: OLondonWorld
