Arsene Wenger makes surprise Man City charges prediction over potential relegation verdict

Arsene Wenger admits he was surprised by the Premier League’s decision to charge Manchester City with breaking financial fair play rules, but believes the reigning champions face only a small chance of being relegated or having their titles stripped if found guilty.

Last Monday, City was charged with 115 FFP violations dating back to 2009, but they have strongly denied any wrongdoing.

Pep Guardiola launched a fervent defence of his club ahead of Sunday’s match against Aston Villa, and he is confident that City will prove their innocence.

During the latter stages of his Arsenal tenure, Wenger became enraged at the likes of City and Chelsea, whose finances made keeping up with the English elite nearly impossible.

Wenger lost several of his best players to City, including Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy, and accused his rivals of financial doping.

When asked how he felt seeing City facing such serious allegations, he told beIN Sport: ‘I was in this case where I had to fight with no money against teams that had unlimited resources.

‘I know what it’s like to be in that position, and I just felt you have a responsibility in every club to work with your resources and do the best you can.

‘After that, it’s up to the Premier League to make a decision.

‘FFP is not without flaws. I completely agree, and will people with unlimited resources who enter the game today accept the fact that they cannot invest money?

‘I can’t believe it. What is the appeal of purchasing a football club?’

The severity of the potential punishments ranges from a fine to relegation and title forfeiture.

Asked if he felt there was a chance City could lose their Premier League status, Wenger said: Very small one. I believe so.

‘I believe at the moment I know quite well Khaldoon (Al Mubarak) and I believe he’s an intelligent and honest man, so I was surprised by the charges they face, so let’s see what happens.

‘If they are found guilty, they will face penalties.’ I’m not sure what they will be.’