Nottingham Forest head coach Oliver Glasner has called for a quick resolution to Manchester City’s financial case, warning that prolonged uncertainty could damage the Premier League’s reputation and supporters’ trust in the competition.
Speaking to The Times, Glasner stressed that maintaining the integrity of the league must remain a priority. He believes supporters need confidence that the competition is fair and that unresolved controversies could affect their willingness to continue watching.
Manchester City are facing further pressure after an independent commission found the club guilty of serious breaches of Premier League financial rules. The findings covered the period between the 2009/10 and 2017/18 seasons, including alleged arrangements that artificially inflated the club’s revenue.
Softfootball understands that City’s defence over approximately £830 million in disputed sponsorship payments faces fresh scrutiny because of statements previously made by Etihad Airways. City have argued that the payments came from the Abu Dhabi Government rather than the club’s owner, Abu Dhabi United Group.
However, Etihad previously told United States authorities that its sponsorship payments were made using its own funds without government subsidies. This has raised questions about City’s explanation as the club challenges the commission’s findings.
Manchester City have maintained their innocence and lodged an appeal, arguing that the commission’s decision contains significant errors of law, principle and fact. The appeal process will determine whether the findings stand and what consequences could follow.
Glasner’s comments reflect growing concern across English football about the importance of reaching a clear decision. With the case attracting widespread attention, the outcome could have significant implications for the Premier League’s credibility, financial regulations and relationships between clubs.
For now, City’s appeal remains central to the dispute, while the league faces pressure to ensure the process concludes fairly and without unnecessary delay.
