Arsenal, Tottenham’s anxious points deduction wait explained as Man City FFP verdict goes on

Arsenal and Tottenham will be waiting for a significantly longer period of time to find out the verdict of whether Manchester City will face punishment for the charges relating to alleged breaches of financial rules. In February of last year, the Premier League announced that the club referred a number of alleged breaches to a Commission under Rule W.3.4.

Since then, it has gone quiet as the Commission continues to investigate. In that time, Everton have received a ten-point deduction which they have appealed following a breach of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) for the 2021/22 season.

Manchester City offered a response to the allegations, claiming in a statement: “Manchester City FC is surprised by the issuing of these alleged breaches of the Premier League Rules, particularly given the extensive engagement and vast amount of detailed materials that the EPL has been provided with.

“The Club welcomes the review of this matter by an independent Commission, to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence that exists in support of its position. As such we look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all.”

Whilst the appeal is ongoing, it was revealed by The Athletic that both the Toffees and Nottingham Forest are expected to be referred to an independent panel over alleged PSR breaches. Points deductions are again a potential punishment which would come as a serious blow to both side’s survival hopes.

Arsenal meanwhile find themselves doubly affected by the situation. Firstly, hopes of spending in the January transfer window have been hit as the Gunners try to tread the tightrope of PSR and look for opportunities to reinforce.

Furthermore is the continued battle with Man City for the title whilst they continue to be investigated. City won the treble last season, beating the Gunners to the Premier League title despite the ongoing scrutiny.