Man City release brief 79 word statement after financial breach charges and face points deductions and sanctions

MANCHESTER CITY released a defiant statement after being charged with alleged breaches of financial regulations.

In a short 79-word release, the club said they were "surprised" by the charges issued by the Premier League.

The charges relate to breaching financial regulations over nine seasons between 2009 and 2018.

They have also been charged with breaching rules requiring them to assist in the investigation, from the 2018-19 campaign to the current season.

The investigation itself into City started way back in December 2018.

An independent commission will now look into the Premier League's findings.

The commission can issue punishments to the club ranging from expulsion from the Premier League to points deductions, fines and transfer bans.

In response, City said: "Manchester City FC is surprised by the issuing of these alleged breaches of the Premier League Rules, particularly given the extensive engagement and vast amount of detailed materials that the EPL has been provided with.

"The Club welcomes the review of this matter by an independent Commission, to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position.

"As such we look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all."

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A Premier League statement said City breached rules requiring them to provide "accurate financial information that gives a true and fair view of the club's financial position".

The Premier League also accused City of failing to cooperate and assist with the investigation.

That was prompted following the publishing of leaked documents by German website Der Spiegel.

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At this stage the Etihad club have been charged, but not found guilty.

However, they would not be able to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if the ruling does go against them.

In total there are 32 separate charges adding up to 113 alleged breaches of League rules.