The gloriously named Eagles Beak website points out “The Christmas curse often spells end of Premier League stay,” writes David Little, a Partner in our Corporate and Commercial department who increasingly handles Sports Law cases too.
And as I wrote here, it seems bonkers that Everton are in danger of being relegated, having been deducted ten points for financial irregularities, and as a consequence find themselves at the foot of the table. Well, not quite the foot, that place is currently occupied by newly promoted Sheffield United, who look like they’re going straight back down into the Championship.
However, all Everton’s offences – which they’re appealing – pale into insignificance against high flying Manchester City’s 115 Premier League charges,
This has prompted City’s manager Pep Guardiola to declare: “I won’t leave even if we are in League One!”
City are still waiting to hear the outcome of the Premier League’s investigation into them after being hit by 115 charges in February for breaching financial rules. Guardiola lamented the fact that many people have already decided that City are guilty and are calling for them to be relegated from the top flight. However, it was reported widely he would stay in charge of the Manchester club whatever happens.
The City boss said: “At the moment we are innocent until it is proved we are guilty. I know the people want it. I know, I feel it. I will wait. Wait and see it and after the sentence has been done we will come here and explain it. But absolutely I will not consider my future (if) it depends being here or being in League One. Absolutely. There is more chance to stay if we are in League One than if we were in the Champions League.”
Everton became the first Premier League club to receive a sporting sanction for flouting financial regulations when the Toffees were deducted 10 points, plunging Sean Dyche’s side into the relegation zone. Guardiola, however, declined to comment on the punishment and insisted the two club’s cases were different.
“[People say] ‘Why Everton’s been punished for 10 points deduction, why is Man City in there?’ It’s two different cases. It’s not the same,” Guardiola added. “Honestly. I spoke with my people [they] said it is completely different. Okay, the other one is longer because it is more complicated because it’s 115 breaches. So wait. Then after when the lawyers from both sides present their cases in front of the judge and there is a verdict you can ask me the question.”
As team talks go, Pep’s not as coherent as I’d have expected, especially given his success on the pitch.
Regardless of how well City play this season I suspect their lawyers will be the ones working hard to keep them in the top flight.
Contact our Corporate and Commercial Solicitors
David Little, is a Partner in the Corporate & Commercial team and also Head of Sports Law for the firm. If you would like to contact him please quote Ref CB439 on either 07968 027343 or 020 7631 4141 or email company@bishopandsewell.co.uk.
The above is accurate as at 11 December 2023. The information above may be subject to change.
The content of this note should not be considered legal advice and each matter should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
