Everton faced initial punishment and now encounters another significant penalty, creating concerns for Chelsea and Manchester City’s Premier League status.
On Friday, Everton received an unprecedented 10-point deduction for violating financial fair play regulations, placing them 19th in the standings with only four points. Despite Everton’s plan to appeal, this severe penalty has raised apprehensions for Chelsea and Manchester City.
The reigning league champions, Man City, and Chelsea are under the scrutiny of financial probes, accused of breaking 115 financial regulations. Chelsea’s involvement in payments to former owner Roman Abramovich might also trigger an investigation.
In response to Everton’s punishment, attorney Stefan Borson, who has advised City, expressed on Twitter that while the severity of giving Everton ten points for a simple Financial Fair Play violation seems harsh, it sets a precedent. He pointed out the potential consequences for City and Chelsea, suggesting relegation-inducing sanctions if proven guilty.
The Premier League’s decision to use Everton as an example and impose a harsh penalty indicates a desire to establish a precedent. The gravity of Chelsea and Man City’s alleged offenses, coupled with the fear of demotion highlighted by Borson, intensifies the worry for these football powerhouses.