Manchester City’s limited activity in the transfer market this summer might be more strategic than meets the eye. Amid their pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title, the club has made just one signing: Brazilian prodigy Savinho from Troyes, costing £21 million, according to the Express.
With significant departures, including Julian Alvarez’s move to Atletico Madrid for £82 million, the squad has seen changes, yet City has not moved to fill these gaps. This restraint might be linked to their impending hearing into 115 alleged breaches of Premier League rules.
Gary Neville raised a thought-provoking point on the Stick to Football podcast, speculating that City’s quiet transfer window could be a precautionary measure. “Manchester City’s hearing starts in four weeks. They might be holding off on signings, fearing severe penalties,” Neville suggested. “If they face serious consequences, like relegation or a significant points deduction, they might question the value of new signings now.”
The club faces potential penalties that could include relegation or hefty points deductions if found guilty. The outcome of this complex case is expected by early 2025, provided there are no further delays in the hearing set to begin in mid-to-late September.
The charges include accusations of failing to provide accurate financial details for player and manager payments from 2009 to 2018, and breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules seven times from 2015 to 2018. They are also charged with non-compliance with UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations on five occasions from 2013 to 2018, alongside 35 charges for not cooperating with Premier League investigations from late 2018 to early 2023. City vehemently denies all allegations and maintains their innocence.
