Manchester City's appeal against their Premier League financial charges is set to be heard in December, with a verdict not expected until 2027, according to a report by the Financial Times.

The club were charged earlier this year with more than a hundred serious breaches of Premier League financial regulations. An independent commission subsequently found that City had inflated sponsorship deals over a nine-year period in order to circumvent league rules — a finding the club continue to dispute.

What's at stake for City

The consequences of losing the appeal could be severe. Reports have suggested that a record points deduction, potentially large enough to trigger relegation, remains a possibility if the appeal fails. Manager Enzo Maresca's side would face those sanctions should the verdict go against them.

Even if a decision is reached by early 2027, the process may not end there. Premier League rules allow the independent commission to impose whatever sanctions it deems appropriate, but those punishments can themselves be challenged through further appeals — meaning the full resolution of the case could drag beyond the end of the current Premier League season.

The Premier League's limbo

The ongoing uncertainty has left the Premier League in an uncomfortable position, with the outcome of the case carrying significant implications for the table and for the integrity of the competition. City, eight-time Premier League champions, have consistently maintained their innocence throughout the process.

Off the pitch, City supporters have made their solidarity visible — bringing inflatable bananas to matches as a symbol of continued backing for the club regardless of the outcome.

On the pitch, City's next fixture sees them face Fulham when Premier League action resumes following the international break.