Man City and Chelsea Could Face Relegation

Image: Getty Images

The Premier League has recently been hit by a wave of controversy and uncertainty. The source of this turbulence is Everton's 10-point deduction, which has raised questions about the fate of other Premier League giants like Chelsea and Manchester City. Viasport gives you the details of Everton's point deduction and explore how it might set a precedent that could affect other clubs in the league. 

Everton's 10-Point Deduction 

Everton Football Club found itself in hot water when it was hit with a 10-point deduction by the Premier League. This penalty came as a result of Everton allegedly breaching the league's profitability and sustainability rules. Following a 5-day hearing, it was determined that Everton's financial records showed a loss of £124.5 million, which exceeded the £105 million threshold set by the Premier League for the relevant period. 

The penalty raised eyebrows among football fans and experts alike, as it was seen as a harsh punishment for a club that had exceeded the threshold by only £20 million. This decision by the Premier League immediately triggered discussions about fairness and consistency in applying sanctions to clubs that violate the rules. 

Image: PA

Chelsea's Alleged Wrongdoings 

Amid Everton's controversy, Chelsea has also come under scrutiny due to a joint investigation by The Guardian and a group of international outlets, including the Bureau of Investigative Journalism and Germany's Paper Trail Media. This investigation uncovered a series of payments, reportedly totaling tens of millions of pounds, made over a decade through offshore vehicles belonging to former owner Roman Abramovich. 

These transactions have raised questions about whether governing bodies were aware of these financial dealings and whether they were conducted for the benefit of Chelsea Football Club. Allegations suggest that payments were made to agents, associates of managers, and even club officials. Some of the players in question include Eden Hazard, Antonio Conte, Willian, and Samuel Eto'o. 

Manchester City's 115 Charges 

While Everton and Chelsea grapple with their respective controversies, Manchester City is not immune to the turmoil either. The club has faced a staggering 115 charges, spanning a decade. These charges are related to various aspects of the club's operations, raising concerns about the extent of potential wrongdoing within the club. 

Image: PA

The Fans' Perspective 

As the footballing world watches these developments unfold, the most significant casualties in this ongoing saga are the fans. Supporters of Everton, Chelsea, and Manchester City have found themselves caught in a situation not of their making. They are not responsible for the actions of club owners, officials, or managers, yet they bear the brunt of the consequences, including potential relegation and the tarnishing of their club's reputation. 

The Need for Accountability and Transparency 

The current state of affairs in the Premier League underscores the importance of accountability and transparency within football. While Financial Fair Play regulations were introduced to maintain a level playing field and promote financial stability, the system has faced criticism. Critics argue that these regulations can stifle competition and make it difficult for smaller clubs to challenge the financial might of their larger counterparts. 

The Future of the Premier League 

The Premier League, now in its fourth decade, has enjoyed immense success, drawing in fans from around the world with its high-quality football and drama. However, the recent controversies surrounding Everton, Chelsea, and Manchester City highlight potential vulnerabilities within the league. It is a stark reminder that no organization is immune to wrongdoing, and the Premier League must act decisively to maintain its integrity. 

The Everton points deduction serves as a wake-up call for the Premier League, highlighting the need for consistent and transparent enforcement of financial regulations. While the fate of Chelsea and Manchester City remains uncertain, the league must address these issues head-on to ensure that football fans, who are the lifeblood of the sport, do not suffer unduly. Whether through an amnesty for clubs to come forward with any potential violations or stronger regulatory measures, the Premier League must act swiftly to restore confidence in the beautiful game. The future of the Premier League and its reputation as the best league in the world depend on it.