The Premier League are reportedly pushing for a punishment that would see Manchester City relegated to the EFL Championship this season. City were found guilty of all charges related to serious breaches of the Premier League's financial rules over a nine-season period by an independent commission, as well as charges in relation to its failure to co-operate with the investigation. City have appealed the independent commission's decision, with the club's hierarchy adamant they are innocent and remain committed to clearing their name. But if the appeal fails, the consequences could be devastating for the 2023 European champions.

As per The Daily Mail, it's claimed the Premier League are pushing for a punishment to be announced and possibly even implemented before the result of the appeal. It's thought the appeal could go on until January 2027, which would cause plenty of uncertainty both on and off the pitch.

It's already suggested bosses at other Premier League clubs are angry at how long this saga has been going on, as they are unaware exactly what and who they're challenging this season. For example, it's unclear whether City's biggest on-field rivals will be at the top of the table, or the relegation zone, given their 100 per cent record at the start of this campaign.

The outlet claims the most likely punishment would be a deduction so big it relegates City regardless of how many points they accrue this season. But that might not be the end of it as far as City are concerned.

That's because City could be given a double-whammy punishment, which includes a further points deduction that would effectively confine the club to the Championship for at least one more season. It is said that the EFL wouldn't be obliged to implement it, but the feeling is that they would.

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