City’s financial ‘trial of the century’ unsettling some players

The days of the so-called “trial of the century” are passing, and the anticipation is growing. There are still several months to go before the independent committee reaches a decision on whether or not to sanction Manchester City following the Premier League’s investigation into alleged financial irregularities.

Despite the wait, some are already getting ready for what may come... including Manchester City’s players. According to the Daily Mail, representatives of the club’s squad have begun exploring their options in response to the threat of relegation.

If the independent panel decides to punish Manchester City, the potential sanctions are varied. However, according to The Telegraph, the most severe consequence would be expulsion from the Premier League and other competitions. Should the club be found guilty of the more than 100 charges against it, the resulting exodus of star players could leave the Manchester club at an all-time low.

The Daily Mail also reports that if Manchester City is convicted of the most serious charges, the consequences could strip the champions of their Premier League status. Agents, well aware of the severity of such a punishment and keen to understand the club’s contingency plans if the worst-case scenario is confirmed, are exploring all scenarios in the event that the squad is put into jeopardy.

Although Pep Guardiola has insisted that there is no talk of the trial within the team, stating that they are “not lawyers”, his inner circle is said to be well aware of the situation. Guardiola himself spoke about his future after Manchester City’s European Cup opener against Inter Milan, saying, “I love Italy, but I really enjoy it here. I love English football—it’s fantastic”.

They leave you in peace to do your job” he added, “which doesn’t happen anywhere else. This is a great club, and I feel very good here.” However, Guardiola’s contract expires in June 2025, and while Manchester City are very much keen on extending it, no progress has been made as things stand.

Rodri, another key player for City, is in a different situation. His contract runs until 2027, but the club is said to be aware of Real Madrid’s interest in him and, according to The Athletic, officials at the club want to renew his contract. Although Rodri has publicly stated he is not considering other clubs, Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on the Manchester City trial, sensing an opportunity to take advantage of any potential instability. The future of players like Erling Haaland, Bernardo Silva, and Kevin De Bruyne also hangs in the balance as the case unfolds.