PSG President Nasser Al Khelaifi refuses to judge Manchester City after guilty verdict

Paris Saint Germain president Nasser Al Khelaifi has declined to comment critically on Manchester City after the Premier League found the club guilty of 114 of 115 charges related to alleged financial rule breaches.

Speaking at the 33rd General Assembly of the European Football Clubs in Copenhagen, Al Khelaifi said it was not his place to judge the case while Manchester City retains the right to appeal.

The charges relate to alleged financial violations dating back to the period following Manchester City’s takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group. The Premier League case involved allegations concerning sponsorship income, financial reporting and the club’s compliance with spending regulations.

Manchester City has rejected the allegations and immediately confirmed its intention to appeal the verdict. The club’s legal challenge means the case is not yet considered fully concluded, with any potential Premier League punishment still to be determined.

Al Khelaifi, who chairs the European Football Clubs association, said football officials should allow the legal process to continue rather than passing their own judgment on the case.

He emphasized that the decision remains subject to appeal and described the matter as an issue involving the Premier League and an English club.

The PSG president also praised Ferran Soriano, Manchester City’s outgoing chief executive, highlighting his experience and contribution to the football industry.

Al Khelaifi said Soriano had been a valuable member of the European football leadership community and praised his knowledge and career.

He also acknowledged Manchester City’s contribution to football while making clear that he did not want to offer a verdict on the club’s legal situation.

The comments come at a sensitive moment for Manchester City as the club prepares to challenge the Premier League findings. The case has been one of the most significant financial disputes in English football and could have major consequences depending on the outcome of the appeal and any eventual sanctions.

For now, the legal process remains ongoing, with Manchester City maintaining its right to challenge the findings through the established appeals system.

Al Khelaifi’s position reflects the wider principle that the final outcome should be determined through the appropriate legal and football authorities rather than by other clubs or officials.

As the appeal process develops, attention will remain focused on the Premier League, Manchester City and the potential disciplinary consequences of the verdict.

Courtesy: getfootballnewsfrance