Kieran Maguire rubbishes ‘disgraceful’ Man City claim as financial probe to rage on
It is no surprise that the Premier League’s investigation into the financial affairs of Man City is taking such a long time.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the ongoing probe into the reigning champion’s conduct behind the scenes.
The Premier League’s inquiry began in 2018 after German publication Der Spiegel published documents which appeared to show that City’s owners made direct payments to the club instead of sponsors.
The Times reported earlier this month (6 January) that senior figures in football have described the delays to the investigation as “disgraceful”.
A High Court judge also said in July 2021 that it was “a legitimate public concern” that it appeared that no progress had been made.
But Maguire claims that it is natural for such a complex process to take as long as it has.
“The Premier League’s investigation into the Newcastle acquisition by PIF took three years,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“Therefore, it is perhaps no surprise that the Premier League’s similar investigation into City’s finances is also going to take a long time.
“The nature of the work is forensic and the access to information is always going to be detailed. There will be views and conversations between both parties.
“I don’t think it’s necessary to say it’s disgraceful that it’s taken so long. I think the Premier League want to get it right.
“If they move too quickly and get it wrong, they will come under a lot of pressure from other clubs. Equally, City feel very confident that they have a very robust defence against the accusations.“
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