City and the Premier League both preferred to keep details of the investigation private but thanks to the Daily Irresponsimail the proceedings were thrust into the public domain. Details of the hearing and reasons are reported. Thinking about it as objectively as I can as a blue maybe the EPL had little choice to proceed if badgered by another club or clubs, but being aware of the shitstorm that would inevitably ensue, and the nature of the allegations and burden of proof were happy to keep it private, as would City of course, knowing that if the allegations were unfounded/unprovable a withdrawal of the proceedings, with honour on both sides so to speak, would have been easier to achieve.
As it is we have a High Noon type scenario and any settlement, however reasonable, measured and required, would result in howls of “corruption” stitch up” etc. from the usual suspects. Thus City have no choice but to take it to the ultimate of a full hearing in those circumstances unless a formula is available that effectively exonerates City but allows the premier league to save face.
My hope is that something along the lines of
“After a thorough and robust* investigation of all relevant accounting periods it is clear that there has been no breach of the rules by Manchester City. However had Manchester City been more willing to cooperate in production of documents from the outset the matter could have been disposed of in a more timely manner and for that reason we impose a fine of £xxxxx in respect of items x to y - failure to cooperate. Manchester City for their part whilst continuing to consider their actions throughout were justified and in accordance with legal advice are prepared to accept, albeit with reluctance the non cooperation fine to bring this matter to a close.
For the avoidance of any doubt no financial impropriety has taken place nor has any unfair sporting advantage been gained by Manchester City.
On the above basis all parties consider the matter fully and finally closed”
I am not ITK and may well be talking bollocks but I wouldn’t be surprised at all of an outcome along these lines.
*robust seems to be an in word at the moment
