Premier League chief issues Man City 115 charges verdict apology as Arsenal and Chelsea watch on

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has been forced to apologise after remaining tight-lipped over the verdict surrounding Manchester City's case over 115 charges of alleged breaches historic FFP rules. The top-flight competition and City have been locked in a legal battle after the club were charged in 2023.

The club have remained steadfast in denying any wrongdoing and due to the complex nature of the case, the hearing began in September 2024 and culminated at the end of last year. There have been multiple reports regarding when the verdict will become public following the gruelling battle between lawyers.

The Independent has reported that Pep Guardiola and his players are working with the assumption that October is the date for when the verdict will be release, where the opportune moment could be during the international break between the 4th and 18th of that month.

READ MORE: Why Viktor Gyokeres isn't starting for Arsenal vs Tottenham as Mikel Arteta makes big call

READ MORE: Chelsea land massive Marc Cucurella transfer advantage after £60m decision finally made

Premier League clubs are working towards the curtain-raiser for the new season on August 14, when Liverpool take on Bournemouth while West Ham United host Chelsea.

Four top-flight teams are currently in the United States as part of the Premier League's Summer Series which as the Cherries facing off alongside West Ham United, Manchester United and Everton.

Masters was at Soldier Field in Chicago for the latest double-header for supporters Stateside and he failed to be drawn on when the verdict will be released with the process heading into its third year.

"You can ask but unfortunately, as you know our rules are very clear," he said.

"It’s a confidential process so I really can’t give any information out on timing or anything like that.

"There is nothing more I can add, so I am sorry about that."

The allegations date back to between 2009 and 2018, largely relating to the manner in which players and staff were paid by the east Manchester club.

The prospect of sanctions remains unclear but should City be found guilty, to any level, the severity of the punishment is difficult to perceive.

Due to the scale of the unprecedented allegations, experts have considered a raft of possible consequences including anything from a fine, points deduction or automatic demotion may yet all be considered as suitable punishments.

The extremity of the punishment could also be determined by how many - and which allegations - might be upheld by the verdict.

City have remained adamant that they are innocent of any wrongdoing and may be found not guilty which could spark action against the Premier League and the division's own appeal.