Man City Raises Legal Concerns Over Proposed Premier League Rule Changes

TDT | Manama

Email: hussianm@newsofbahrain.com

Club Pushes Back on APT Amendments

Manchester City has voiced strong objections to the Premier League's proposed amendments to its Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, labeling them "unlawful." In a letter addressed to the other 19 top-flight clubs, City expressed deep concerns over what it sees as a rushed and flawed consultation process ahead of a crucial vote on November 22.

The dispute stems from last month’s tribunal ruling, which found aspects of the APT regulations—designed to ensure sponsorship deals linked to club owners reflect fair market value—to be in breach of competition law. The arbitration panel ruled that low-interest shareholder loans should not be excluded and deemed recent changes to the rules unlawful.

Tensions Escalate Between League and Club

The Premier League, in correspondence sent to City on Thursday, firmly rejected the club's claims, describing their legal threats as "meritless" and their assertions as "baseless." The league defended its proposed amendments, asserting they are essential to upholding financial fairness across the competition.

Manchester City, however, remains adamant that the changes risk further legal challenges. In their letter, City emphasized a “strong desire to avoid future costly legal disputes” and urged the league to “get it right this time round.”

Background and Implications

The legal battle over APT rules is rooted in the league's efforts to prevent artificially inflated sponsorship deals that could distort financial fairness. While Manchester City succeeded in overturning certain aspects of the rules during the tribunal, they criticized the Premier League's swift move to amend the regulations, claiming it undermines due process.

With a key vote looming, the debate underscores deeper tensions between the reigning champions and the Premier League. Both sides remain silent on the matter for now, but the outcome of next week's vote could set a precedent for governance in England’s top tier.

As City seeks to protect its commercial interests, the Premier League faces the challenge of balancing financial oversight with legal scrutiny, a tightrope that could shape the future of football regulation.