Manchester City could face a prolonged spell in the Championship amid reports that the Premier League is preparing severe sanctions following alleged breaches of financial regulations. According to the Daily Mail, the club could receive a substantial points deduction that would effectively guarantee relegation from the Premier League, alongside a significant financial penalty.

The report follows claims that City were found guilty last month of more than 100 financial rule breaches relating to a period between 2009 and 2018. The club has challenged the reported findings and maintains that it has evidence to support its defence. City have reportedly lodged an appeal, although the Premier League is said to be considering sanctions that could have consequences extending beyond the current campaign.

One possibility raised in the report is that the club could begin the 2027/28 season with an additional points deduction, potentially making an immediate return to the Premier League considerably more difficult. Any punishment affecting City's participation in the Championship would require approval from the English Football League (EFL). However, the report suggests that the EFL is unlikely to intervene to reduce the proposed penalties.

Despite the possibility of relegation, City are not expected to be removed immediately from the Premier League and would instead complete their remaining fixtures. Reports also suggest that a direct demotion to League Two is unlikely. The uncertainty comes despite an impressive start to the domestic season under head coach Enzo Maresca, whose side recently recorded a seventh consecutive victory.

Meanwhile, City are preparing for their Champions League encounter against AEK Athens, with Maresca confirming that Ghana international Antoine Semenyo could be sidelined for approximately eight weeks following a knee injury sustained during Saturday's victory over Ipswich Town. The manager explained that initial concerns suggested a more serious injury, but subsequent scans revealed that the damage was less severe than first feared.

Semenyo is now expected to return around December, providing a potential boost as City navigate a challenging period both on and off the pitch. The reported sanctions remain subject to the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings, and no final punishment has been confirmed in the supplied report.