Inside the Man City scandal, with Ornstein and Horncastle

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Kate Mason welcomes football correspondent David Ornstein and senior writer James Horncastle to discuss the shocking verdict against Manchester City, which found them guilty of almost all charges related to financial misconduct. David shares the inside story on how this news broke while he was attending the Portugal Football Summit, highlighting the rigorous process of reporting such significant developments and the responsibilities of journalists in ensuring accurate reporting.

The conversation delves into the aftermath of the verdict and the reactions from other Premier League clubs, who feel vindicated after years of allegations and scrutiny. Both David and James emphasize that this case, which has been ongoing for nearly eight years, holds immense public interest, and many clubs are mobilizing legal teams to assess potential compensation.

Additionally, they draw parallels to past scandals like Calciopoli in Italian football and explore the wider implications for Manchester City's reputation and the Premier League's image. Ultimately, the podcast underscores the uncertainty that lies ahead, including appeals and possible sanctions, and ponders the long-term effects on Manchester City's status within the league and football as a whole.