What APT Settlement Means for Manchester City’s 115 Charges Verdict

Manchester City have officially reached a settlement with the Premier League regarding the long-running dispute over the division’s Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, ending arbitration proceedings that began earlier this year. Both parties confirmed that the agreement makes the current APT rules valid and binding, with no further public statements to follow.

The development comes as City prepare to return to Premier League action this weekend against rivals Manchester United, but off the pitch, questions remain over the club’s ongoing legal battle concerning 115 alleged breaches of the league’s financial regulations between 2009 and 2018.

APT Dispute and Settlement Explained

The APT framework was introduced to regulate commercial arrangements between clubs and entities linked to their ownership. City had long argued that parts of the rules were unlawful under competition law. However, following the settlement, the Etihad club now formally accepts the regulations as binding.

While this marks the end of one legal battle with the Premier League, attention has quickly shifted back to the unresolved charges case, which remains a major focus for both the club and English football at large.

Where Do the 115 Charges Stand?

Manchester City were charged in February 2023 with over 100 alleged breaches of financial rules. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, City’s on-field performances have remained unaffected, with Pep Guardiola’s side completing a historic treble and lifting their first UEFA Champions League during the same period.

An independent commission heard arguments over a ten-week period from September to November 2024. However, nearly a year later, no verdict has been delivered. Premier League CEO Richard Masters has called for patience, emphasizing the need for due diligence and accuracy before any ruling is made public.