Manchester City are expected to learn their fate over 115 charges of alleged financial rule breaches before the end of the 2024/25 season.
Following a succession of delays and legal challenges, the Premier League offered a summer update on the case, and a landmark decision could be on the horizon.
Man City were hit by the charges from the Premier League in February 2023 for allegedly breaking financial fair play (FFP) rules over a nine-year period.
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City have strenuously denied any wrongdoing over the matter and they are preparing a legal challenge as the case accelerates.
The Times reported in August the hearing date had been brought forward to late September, with ten weeks of investigations, and a final decision expected at some point in 2025.
As the amount and seriousness of the charges levelled against the Premier League champions is unprecedented, speculation continues over what potential punishment could be handed out, if they are found guilty.
EPL rivals Everton and Nottingham Forest were hit with points deductions last season, for lesser charges, with the pair narrowly avoiding relegation as a result.
Former Man City financial advisor Stefan Borson told an exclusive interview with Football Insider the situation is complex but insisted the lack of clarity is a concern.
"I think it’s disappointing that together the Premier League, City and the panel as the key decision makers, haven’t agreed to disclose the timings publicly", he said.
However, alongside Borson's remarks, an unnamed current Premier League chief executive told The Athletic a points deduction could break new ground and relegate City.
"The collective view I’ve heard is that an appropriate sanction would have to be a points deduction so substantial — we are talking here between 70 and 80 points — that guarantees City a season in the Championship", he said.
Points deductions and huge fines are amongst the possible punishments on the agenda with Pep Guardiola expected to delay his contract extension decision until after the case is wrapped up.