'I know what we did': Hart speaks out as City CEO snubs questions and Lord Pannick leads appeal
Joe Hart has issued a clear message after the guilty verdict. Ferran Soriano refused to answer Sky News questions in Copenhagen. And City have "the best barrister in Britain" leading their case, with insiders saying "this is not over."
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Manchester City's chief executive Ferran Soriano refused to answer questions about the club's guilty verdict as he left a meeting of the European Football Clubs executive board in Copenhagen on Monday.
Sky News asked Soriano: "What do you say to your fans? Can you assure them that things aren't going to be problematic now? Will it take years to finish this case? Is it time for some transparency?"
He walked away without responding.
It has been reported that Soriano told senior figures from other Premier League clubs at the meeting that the case is "far from over" and will "take a lot more time." City have always strongly denied all charges.
Who is leading City's legal case?
Lord David Pannick KC, described by those in legal circles as "the best KC barrister in Great Britain." Former scout Bryan King told Football Insider: "People have said that he wouldn't have taken this case on knowing that they were going to lose. And this case is not over."
King added: "These charges and the sentencing, it won't happen this year, that's for sure."
What has Joe Hart said?
The former City goalkeeper issued a clear message after the verdict: "I know what we did."
One unnamed Premier League club owner went further, telling reporters that City's situation was "no different to doping."
What punishment could City face?
The range of sanctions runs from fines to points deductions to expulsion from the Premier League. City are expected to appeal, which would delay any punishment for months.
A Mirror poll of more than 13,500 fans showed opinion split between automatic relegation, points deduction and a huge fine, with a significant minority saying "nothing, they will appeal."
What about the players?
Erling Haaland has been taken off media duties while on international duty with Norway but appears to be maintaining his focus. Gabriel Agbonlahor has already told talkSPORT that Liverpool should move for Antoine Semenyo and Nico O'Reilly if the verdict triggers an exodus.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What charges are Manchester City facing?
- The club was charged with 115 alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules between 2009 and 2018, including allegations of failing to cooperate with investigators.
- Has the Premier League announced a punishment?
- No official statement or punishment has been announced yet. The Times reports that the Premier League will recommend sanctions to the independent commission soon.
- Will Manchester City appeal the decision?
- Yes, the club is widely expected to appeal. Club executives have publicly stated that the legal process still has a long way to go before any final resolution.