Manchester City have escaped a transfer ban for the breach of regulations over international transfers and registration of players under the age of 18 but they have been fined £315,000. Chelsea recently found themselves banned from signing any players after violating similar rules – transfers of minor footballers.
“In its decision on Manchester City, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee took into consideration all specific circumstances of the case as well as the club’s cooperation in clarifying the relevant facts,” a FIFA spokesperson told Sky Sports News.
“It is important to stress that the specific circumstances of this case differ from previous cases involving breaches relating to the international transfer and registration of players under the age of 18.”
The Citizens are still under investigation from FIFA and UEFA over financial fair play regulation. Their official statement regarding this ruling read –
“Manchester City FC can confirm that it has today received a reprimand and a CHF 370,000 fine following the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee concerning the international transfer of players under the age of 18, particularly in relation to their trial periods and participation in friendly games.
“The Club accepts responsibility for the breaches which arose as a result of misinterpretation of the regulations in question. All of the breaches occurred before December 2016 when guidance on the interpretation of the provisions was issued, since which date Manchester City has been fully compliant.
“The Club regards highly and shares FIFA’s determination to ensure the protection of minors in football and has cooperated fully with the investigation which has been transparent and evidenced based at all times.”
See Also: Top 10 highest paid players in the English Premier League
