Premier League clubs have voted to implement changes to the Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules, delivering a significant setback to Manchester City. At a shareholders’ meeting held in central London on Friday, 16 clubs supported the amendments, with Manchester City joined by Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Nottingham Forest in voting against them.
The vote follows a long-standing dispute between Manchester City and the Premier League over the APT system. Earlier this year, an Arbitration Tribunal ruled that certain aspects of the league’s existing APT rules were “unlawful.” However, the Premier League swiftly initiated consultations with clubs and independent experts to address the Tribunal’s findings and amend the rules.
Manchester City had lobbied other clubs in advance of the vote, arguing that the proposed amendments remain “unlawful.” The club contended that no vote should proceed until the Tribunal panel’s full response is received. Despite their efforts, the changes were approved, further intensifying tensions between the defending champions and the league.
The APT rules govern financial transactions between clubs and their associated parties, aiming to ensure transparency and fairness in financial dealings. The amendments are expected to tighten regulations, although Manchester City and their allies view the changes as disproportionately targeting certain clubs.
This development adds another layer to the ongoing conflict between Manchester City and the Premier League, as the club continues to face scrutiny over alleged breaches of financial regulations.
