How much bigger could the Man City scandal get?

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, hosts Kate Mason, Rob Green, Matt Slater, and Adam Crafton delve into the aftermath of Manchester City being found guilty of serious financial violations by the Premier League. The episode explores the potential sanctions, the reactions from various stakeholders in football, and the broader implications for the Premier League era.

The hosts highlight the surreal nature of the situation, particularly for Manchester City players, who feel helpless as they bear the brunt of the fallout from decisions made well before their time at the club. They discuss the reactions from fans, sponsors, and rival clubs, and the challenges the City players are likely to face during fixtures amidst public criticism.

An important discussion revolves around the potential legal appeals and the uncertainty of the timeline for further developments. Special emphasis is placed on the terms like 'sham' used in the judgment, which could have lasting reputational damage for the club. The episode raises questions about broader issues such as the role of the Premier League as a regulator, the potential involvement of international relations, and the ramifications for Manchester's local leadership in light of City's ownership.

The podcast also speculates on the possibility of legal repercussions for individuals involved within or connected to City, touching on the concept of diplomatic immunity for certain figures in the club hierarchy. With ongoing uncertainty, the podcast closes by considering whether the entire Premier League legacy is forever altered due to these developments.