Manchester City provide 'comprehensive proof' of innocence over Uefa's FFP investigation

Premier League champions issue statement in response to a report that claims the investigatory chamber will recommend a one-season ban from the Champions League

Manchester City players, staff and supporters celebrate the club's Premier League title success at the Etihad Stadium. AFP

Manchester City have said they are "fully cooperating in good faith" and have provided "comprehensive proof" that accusations of financial fair play (FFP) irregularities are false.

Uefa and the Premier League launched an investigation into City this year after allegations made in German magazine Der Spiegel that the club broke Financial Fair Play rules.

A report in the New York Times has claimed members of the investigatory chamber (IC) of Uefa's Club Financial Body (CFCB), which was set up to analyse the accounts of clubs suspected of breaking cost-control regulations, are to recommend a one-season suspension from the Champions League for City. Manchester City would have the right to appeal against any such ban in the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

City have released a statement in response to the New York Times article, vehemently denying any wrongdoing and insisting there is evidence to prove their innocence.

“Manchester City FC is fully cooperating in good faith with the CFCB IC’s ongoing investigation. In doing so the club is reliant on both the CFCB IC’s independence and commitment to due process; and on Uefa’s commitment of the 7th of March that it … will make no further comment on the matter while the investigation is ongoing," the statement said.

“The New York Times report citing ‘people familiar with the case’ is therefore extremely concerning. The implications are that either Manchester City’s good faith in the CFCB IC is misplaced or the CFCB IC process is being misrepresented by individuals intent on damaging the Club’s reputation and its commercial interests. Or both.

“Manchester City’s published accounts are full and complete and a matter of legal and regulatory record. The accusation of financial irregularities are entirely false, and comprehensive proof of this fact has been provided to the CFCB IC.”

City won their fourth Premier League title in eight seasons on Sunday following a 4-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion to become the first club in 10 years to successfully defend the trophy.