Man City's 115-charge FFP hearing set to end this week with fresh date set for verdict to finally be revealed

City are currently facing trial after being charged with 115 counts of breaching the Premier League's financial rules in February 2023. The trial started on 17 September and has reportedly stuck to a tight schedule, meaning that there are no significant delays as it stands and the closing arguments are likely to conclude this week, according to The Independent. This would mean an outcome is expected in February 2025.

City's FFP saga has been rolling on for a long time, but the end is now in sight. However, it's important to note that after the outcome is revealed in February it is highly likely that either the Premier League, which brought the charges against City, or the club itself, which has consistently denied all wrongdoing, will appeal the verdict.

Present this week at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in London, where the trial has taken place, were two prominent Premier League barristers, Andrew Hunter KC and Adam Lewis KC, both of whom had been involved in the battle against Everton which ultimately led to the Merseyside club's points deductions last season. Whether their case against City will be a success remains to be seen.

Pep Guardiola and his players have continually assisted that this activity behind the scenes has not been a distraction, but the club's dismal recent run suggests the financial saga and general unrest may be having a psychological impact. City face Crystal Palace this weekend and once again the first team will have to put this off-the-field turmoil to the back of their minds and concentrate on the task ahead.