The Manchester club have maintained their innocence throughout. Last season’s treble winners, who are in contention to win a fourth straight league title this term, say they have a “comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence” to support their case. In January, Premier League chief executive Richard Masters indicated a date had been set for City’s hearing, but did not provide further details. The latest comments at the European Leagues General Assembly are the closest he has come to giving a full idea of when the next steps will take place.

Masters mentioned that if any club, including the current champions, were found in breach of spending rules, they would be in the same position as Everton or Nottingham Forest. However, the volume and character of the charges laid before Man City are being heard in a completely different environment. Although a date has been set for the proceedings, he did not disclose when it is. While they wait for the next steps, City have been continuing their title charge on the pitch.

Guardiola, their manager, mentioned that winning the title does not get any easier despite having done it before. He also acknowledged their efforts to offer special offers, promotions, and adverts to their community members.