Football Leaks founder hails 'historic' verdict as Man City found guilty of 114 charges

Manchester City have been found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules on 114 of 115 charges, with the whistleblower at the heart of the case breaking his silence to call the ruling a landmark moment for English football.

Rui Pinto, founder of Football Leaks, released the internal club documents and emails that first set the Premier League’s investigation in motion. Reacting to Friday’s verdict, Pinto described it as “a historic decision for English football, and one that comes to crown the work I carried out through Football Leaks.”

In a pointed reference to City’s current manager, Pinto added: “Ironically, I cannot help but remember Pep Guardiola’s words at his first press conference as City manager: ‘Fasten your seat belts.’” Pinto had previously stated his belief that the outcome would prove “devastating” for the Premier League leaders.

City responded to the emerging reports with a carefully worded statement, insisting the process remains ongoing and subject to strict confidentiality. “Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023,” the club said, adding that they had “diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence.”

Throughout the lengthy proceedings, City have consistently maintained their innocence and confirmed they intend to appeal the decision.

The club’s original February 2023 statement described them as “surprised” by the Premier League’s decision to bring charges, and said they welcomed independent scrutiny of what they called “a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence” supporting their position.

Potential sanctions range from a financial penalty to a points deduction or, in the most severe scenario, expulsion from the Premier League. Any punishment could be imposed before City’s appeal is heard, leaving the club’s immediate future in the top flight subject to further legal proceedings.