Dave Hendrick: City's FFP test will change the landscape

In a recent episode of Daily Red Podcasthosted by Dave Hendrick on Anfield Index, the conversation turned to Manchester City and the looming Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges. These 115 charges, spanning the years from 2009 to 2018, have cast a significant shadow over the Premier League giants, with potential consequences ranging from points deductions to even more severe penalties. Hendrick analyses the situation with great clarity and insight.

Manchester City's FFP violations: A long road ahead

Dave Hendrick isn't mincing his words when it comes to Manchester City's financial misconduct. He explains how these 115 charges relate to their financial dealings over a long period of time and stresses that the consequences could be monumental. “This is not going to be a quick trial… it's going to take months because every single charge has to be presented, argued and proven,” Hendrick explained, stressing how lengthy and complex this process will be. The saga could drag on well into the new year, with Hendrick speculating that “it might be February or March of next year before we have an actual penalty or decision.”

Remove title: A serious possibility

Hendrick mentioned the most significant possible outcome: the stripping of three Premier League titles won by City during the investigation period. The first of these came under Roberto Mancini, followed by two more under Manuel Pellegrini and Pep Guardiola. “Those three titles could well be stripped away,” Hendrick said, pointing out that further investigations are likely to be required for seasons after 2018, meaning City's financial manipulation could still be ongoing.

While many fans and pundits expect Manchester City to get away with a points deduction, Hendrick cautions against jumping to conclusions: “Some people think that could lead to a points deduction… I don't think that will happen this season.” He notes that while some are predicting a more lenient punishment, there is a real possibility of more severe measures, including expulsion from the league. “There is a very strong possibility that they will be expelled from the league,” Hendrick adds, but admits that political pressure could influence the final decision.

City's position in the Premier League: A shaky foundation

One of the more interesting insights Hendrick offers is the impact of potential penalties for Manchester City on the wider Premier League landscape. Liverpool fans have long been vocal in their frustration with City's financial dominance and the impact of the investigation could rock the league. “This isn't just about a points deduction; it's about changing the competitive landscape,” says Hendrick. He believes these hearings could not only damage City's current reputation but also change the way clubs deal with financial regulations in the future.

If the investigation confirms all the allegations, Hendrick speculates that City could face far worse punishments than just lost points or stripped titles. “It could be much more serious for them,” he says, referring to speculation about relegation or even expulsion from the Premier League.

The wider impact on Liverpool and the Premier League

While the investigation is clearly focused on City, Hendrick is also thinking about what this means for Liverpool, their Premier League title wins and the competition as a whole. “We need the right punishment to restore fairness,” argues Hendrick. He notes that if City were found guilty, their dominance over the last decade would be seen in a very different light. Clubs like Liverpool, who have consistently followed FFP rules, could benefit from a realigned Premier League where financial doping is no longer tolerated.

In Hendricks' view, this investigation could be the catalyst for much-needed reforms. “If this goes as it should, we could see changes in the way the Premier League operates. It's about more than just City; it's about the integrity of the competition.”