Canadian men’s soccer coach Jesse Marsch has urged for strict penalties against Manchester City for violating Premier League financial regulations. Marsch, who previously managed Leeds United, expressed his belief in the club’s questionable practices during his time in England.

Manchester City was found to have breached financial rules over a span of nine seasons, allegedly inflating revenue and understating costs by over 900 million pounds. The club has denied any wrongdoing and has lodged an appeal against the independent commission ruling, citing errors in law, principle, and fact.

Marsch emphasized the disparity between clubs, recalling a transfer window where Leeds and City reported profits from player sales while other teams did not. He questioned City’s acquisitions, including the signing of Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund, expressing doubts about the reported transfer fees.

The American coach highlighted the financial differences between the clubs, pointing out discrepancies in their financial positions and transfer dealings. Reuters has reached out to Manchester City for a response to Marsch’s statements.

Manchester City’s appeal will be reviewed by an independent three-member board, with potential sanctions such as fines, point deductions, or other penalties under consideration. The possibility of relegation or title revocation is also being discussed, but any sanctions will be pending the outcome of the appeal process.