Man City hit with FFP blow! Premier League could be 'encouraged' after learning UEFA rejected legal advice over Champions League ban appeal

Per the Independent, a group of external lawyers had reportedly urged UEFA to appeal to Swiss courts after CAS gave their verdict in Manchester City's favour on breaching of FFP charges back in 2020. Subsequently, a Champions League ban on the club was lifted. However, UEFA rejected the advice and did not follow up on the matter with a further appeal.

The report also adds that the revelation there were grounds to appeal against CAS' verdict was available could prove to be of 'encouragement' for the Premier League who are fighting their legal battle with the English champions over fresh FFP charges. The hearing into the charges levelled against City, which number between 115 and 130, came to a close on December 6 after nearly three months of legal arguments being heard at London’s International Dispute Resolution Centre.

The Times have reported that the three-man panel in charge of delivering a verdict intend to reach a judgement by the end of January 2025, but the case could further drag for another eight months depending on the complexities of the case. If the judgement goes in the Cityzens' favour, unlike UEFA, the Premier League could ponder on avenues to further appeal.

The defending English champions are having a tough time both on and off the pitch, having won just one game in their last nine outings across all competitions. They will be next in action on Wednesday as they take on Juventus in the Champions League.