Temi Kings
In the immediate wake of reports that an independent commission found Manchester City guilty on 114 of 115 financial charges, City Chief Executive Ferran Soriano addressed rival club bosses directly at a meeting of the European Football Clubs (EFC) board in Copenhagen. Addressing the elephant in the room at the end of the session, Soriano made it clear that Manchester City vehemently disagree with the outcome and are preparing for a protracted legal battle.
"It's taken eight years to get here, and it's going to take a lot more time."
— Ferran Soriano, Manchester City Chief Executive
Soriano’s reference to "eight years" pointed to 2018, when the Premier League first opened its formal investigation into the Etihad club's financial operations. His remarks reinforce a coordinated stance from Manchester City’s hierarchy, coming just two days after Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak issued a personal letter to supporters reiterating the club's unwavering confidence.
"The Premier League process still has a long way to run, and our confidence and intent in proving the Club's innocence is just as strong as when this began."
— Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Manchester City Chairman
Media Breakdown: Sky Sports & Global Reporting Trends
Major sports broadcasting outlets, led by Sky Sports and international news networks, have shifted their focus to the procedural and economic fallout of Soriano's declaration:
The Appeal Process: City are launching an appeal within the mandatory 14-day window. This will appoint a brand-new three-member appeals panel, functionally resetting key elements of the dispute and potentially delaying final enforcement until 2027.
Rival Reactions: European and Premier League executives expressed frustration at Soriano's assertion that the process will drag on, raising concerns about perpetual regulatory uncertainty hanging over domestic and continental competitions.
Commercial Fallout: Sky Sports analysts note that sponsor contracts, player negotiations, and strategic long-term planning remain in limbo while the legal appeal plays out across formal tribunals.
Key Facts & Legal Timeline
Ferran Soriano Statement: Delivered at the EFC Board Meeting in Copenhagen on Monday, September 28, 2026.
Core Quote: "It's taken eight years to get here, and it's going to take a lot more time."
Club Stance: Total rejection of guilty findings; full confidence in clearing the club's name through the official appeal tribunal.
Next Legal Milestone: Expiry of the 14-day formal appeal window and establishment of the new independent appellate panel.