Total exile? Manchester City could be kicked out of the Premier League — and EFL may shut the door

Manchester City's legal nightmare could threaten their entire place in English professional football.

Details: According to journalist Duncan Castles, there is strong support for Manchester City to be expelled from the Premier League and then denied admission to the English Football League, which includes the Championship, League One and League Two. Castles also reports that there is backing for the club's Abu Dhabi ownership to be removed. These scenarios remain proposals and positions being discussed around the case rather than officially imposed sanctions.

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The possibility of such an extreme outcome has intensified after an independent Premier League Commission found Manchester City guilty of all charges relating to serious breaches of the competition's financial rules over nine seasons from 2009/10 to 2017/18, as well as three of the four alleged breaches concerning cooperation with the investigation.

Manchester City formally lodged an appeal on October 1 and continue to insist that they are innocent, arguing that the Commission's opinion contains material errors of law, principle and fact. A final sporting punishment has therefore not yet been imposed. Castles previously reported that a source closely involved with the Premier League believes City could be expelled if the club and its owners do not change their position and reach a compromise.

It's worth noting that Manchester City remain top of the Premier League with 15 points after winning their opening five matches. Their next league fixture is scheduled for October 11 away against Liverpool.

Reminder: Double jeopardy! UEFA closes in as City's nightmare deepens