FA says Man City verdict carries integrity implications as appeal deadline looms

Manchester City were found guilty of all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons, according to BBC Sport. The Football Association said the Independent Commission's verdict has significant implications for the integrity of the game.

The panel found the club had arranged sham contracts with commercial partners. It said those deals were part of a scheme to disguise secret funding of more than £830m. In plain terms, the financial rules set limits on how clubs report money in and money out. They are designed to keep competition fair.

The Premier League said City had systematically broken its rules for nearly a decade. That covers nine seasons of league football. City have repeatedly denied guilt in relation to the charges.

City have until Friday to lodge an appeal. The cut-off falls on Friday 2 October. Sources told BBC Sport the club was expected to argue as part of any appeal that key sponsorship deals were funded by the Abu Dhabi government rather than the club's owners.

The FA said it is carefully considering the decision and its implications. It said it will take action where appropriate. It added that proceedings between the Premier League and City remain ongoing and it does not intend to comment further at this stage.

The FA said it will continue to monitor developments closely. That is the limit of its public position for now. No further detail has been given on what action it might take.

For supporters picking this story up cold, the key point is simple. A verdict has been delivered. The process is not finished. The next step sits with City and that Friday appeal deadline.