Citizens begin bid to overturn European ban

MANCHESTER City could win the Champions League in this Covid-19 delayed season – yet find themselves banned from defending their title next year.

The Premier League club will begin their appeal against a two-year ban from European competition at the Court of Arbitration for Sport today.

Over the course of three days City will make their case, though British newspaper the Daily Mirror says that it could take as long as two months for them to learn their fate.

The Citizens received the ban – and a £25million fine after they were found to have broken Uefa’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.

According to the European football governing body, City overstated their sponsorship revenue between 2012 and 2016, in order to meet the FFP requirements. The appeal is set to take place by video conferencing, due to Covid-19 restrictions.

“I think it is very important that the suspension remains in place,” former Uefa chief investigator Brian Quinn told broadcaster ARD. “And I think two years is also a fair and appropriate sanction.”

City vehemently deny the allegations of wrongdoing, but first said they were “disappointed but not surprised” at the ban being issued.

“Simply put, this is a case initiated by Uefa, prosecuted by Uefa and judged by Uefa,” said City. “With this prejudicial process now over, the club will pursue an impartial judgement as quickly as possible.”

Manager Pep Guardiola will also be concerned at some media reports that suggest some of City’s top players could leave if the result does not go their way. Belgium coach Roberto Martinez said the result of the appeal could convince star midfielder Kevin de Bruyne to leave the club.