It seems that City are mortal after all

What now for Manchester City? They seem in the vernacular to be “bang to rights” over illegitimate spending, with huge sums of money being generated by their middle eastern holding company.

They had been caught out before, escaping with a heavy fine, but now if the punishment is to fit the crime those very deep pockets should avail them nothing.

The only practical punishment would be to deprive them of league points.

Last season they sailed away with the title, but unconvincing displays against modest French opposition in Europe, plus their recent clear-cut defeat at Chelsea, suggest they may be, so to speak, mortal.

Their chief executioner at Stamford Bridge that day was that gifted but unpredictable centre-back David Luiz, who crowned his performance with a spectacular headed goal.

Of his great talents there has never been any doubt. Of his consistency all too many. A couple of World Cups ago, he was an extreme liability in a Brazilian defence horribly mauled by a rampant Germany in the semi-final. Nor did he look any better in the third-place match. But when on form he can be irresistible, as Manchester City discovered.

Meanwhile, City have done well to bind 18-year-old Phil Foden to an extended contract. Small but energetic, he is that rarity at City: a player who has come through the ranks. One hopes he will be given a sustained opportunity in the first team, when so much money has been spent on foreign players. England needs him but he in turn needs regular football.