Former Man City player calls for club to face 125-point deduction over five years

Former goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has proposed a radical four-point punishment plan for Manchester City following alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations.

The football world was rocked last month by allegations that City artificially inflated club revenues by over £900 million between 2009 and 2018. The eight-time English champions continue to maintain their innocence and have confirmed they will appeal the findings, with reports suggesting they are prepared to take the matter to the High Court. A final ruling is not expected until late January 2027, keeping potential sanctions firmly in the spotlight.

The saga raised tensions ahead of the clash at Anfield, where Manchester City secured a 3-0 victory against a 10-man Liverpool side despite a hostile reception from the stands. Second-half goals from Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku, and Rayan Cherki moved City three points clear of title holders Arsenal at the Premier League summit.

Despite the win, the cloud of uncertainty hanging over City's immediate and long-term future remained the main talking point in the Viaplay studio. Schmeichel, a Manchester United legend who closed out his career with their cross-city rivals, shared his view on the appropriate disciplinary action:

"I think they should stay in the Premier League, but for the next five years, they should start every season with a 25-point deduction. That would remind everyone that attempting to cheat the other clubs in the division has severe consequences. I also believe they must be handed a five-year transfer ban and a massive financial fine. On top of that, the owners should be forced to sell the club – they do not have the credentials to run this team or any football club in England. Everyone involved in these actions should receive a lifetime ban from football."

Schmeichel added that he felt stripping Manchester City of their three league titles won during the investigated period from 2009 to 2018 would hold little significance:

"Whether they take the titles away or leave them, it doesn't really change anything in my view."

Former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam took a radically different stance regarding City's trophies:

"I believe the titles must be stripped because they were won by unfair means. I completely agree with Peter that there must be severe punishment. It is crucial that the Premier League sets a definitive example so this never happens again."