60-Point Deduction Could Be Man City's Likely Fate in FFP Appeal, Says Former Executive

Manchester City's looming Financial Fair Play verdict could result in a 60-point deduction, according to those keeping tabs on the ongoing saga engulfing English football's champions.

The Premier League referred City to an independent commission following a four-year investigation into alleged breaches of FFP rules spanning 2018 to 2019. The club faces over 100 charges, though they have consistently maintained their innocence throughout the process.

The hearing between City and the Premier League concluded towards the end of 2024, but no verdict has been announced. Should the club be found guilty, potential sanctions include a substantial fine, transfer restrictions, and points deduction—or a combination thereof.

Speaking to Football Insider, Keith Wyness, the former chief executive of both Everton and Aston Villa, suggested a 60-point penalty represents the sort of sanction that would make logical sense if City were found culpable. "I think 60 points would make sense," Wyness said. "And I think it could be something that City could accept if they were found guilty."

However, Wyness acknowledged that any initial ruling would almost certainly be challenged. "But of course, there'll be an appeal anyway. So if it was 60 points, that'll probably be reduced as well."

The wait for a decision has stretched on considerably, with no indication of when the independent commission will deliver its findings. Meanwhile, City have continued operating normally, suggesting the uncertainty may eventually work in their favour.

Earlier commentary from Borson to Football Insider offered a starker perspective on the potential severity of any sanction. Should everything go against Manchester City, he suggested, the club would struggle to remain in the Premier League regardless of the specific points total. "Whether it's 40 points, 60 points, whatever, it's all largely irrelevant at this stage," Borson noted, emphasizing that the real question centres on whether City could even continue operating in the top flight under such circumstances.

"If everything went against Manchester City, City are unlikely to remain in the Premier League," Borson added, though he stressed this outcome remained his least expected scenario.