In one of the more unique sets of circumstances in Premier League history, Manchester City heads into the 2024-25 season as a betting favorite to win and potentially be relegated.
According to ESPN BET, the eight-time champions are the odds-on favorite to go back-to-back as EPL champs, with their +120 odds at the book leading the way ahead of Arsenal (+180) and Liverpool (+700).
Despite those short odds, bettors are circling on the more unlikely, yet still distinct possibility that Man City will be relegated in the wake of a potential point reduction that could be coming their way. Those odds are currently listed at +1500.
Specifically, bettors have placed a remarkable 27% of all tickets and an even more astonishing 45% of all handle on The Sky Blues dropping out of the Prem, according to ESPN BET.
Since yesterday, Manchester City's odds to be relegated from the Premier League have been cut in half from +1500 to +750 on @ESPNBET 👀 https://t.co/FobqBQAol0
— Doug Greenberg (@DougGreenberg) August 14, 2024
Interestingly, while initially a much heavier Premier League favorite, the club has seen their odds slip from -120 back in May to their current +120 price at ESPN BET, perhaps indicating a fear that repercussions could be in store ahead of a September hearing.
How did Manchester City wind up in this spot?
While City no doubt remains a powerhouse in English soccer, it’s clear that this season could be a tenuous one before it even gets rolling.
The squad is accused of failing to provide accurate financial data, with over 100 alleged breaches according to ESPN.
Charged back in Feb. 2023 following a five-year investigation, the charges reportedly cover a period between 2009-2023, with Manchester City failing to provide accurate details on “player and manager payments, breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, failing to comply with UEFA regulations including financial fair play, and failing to cooperate with Premier League investigations.”
While City denies the allegations, there is some belief among those with close knowledge of the situation that should the most serious charges be proven, the threat of relegation and a serious points penalty are possibilities.
According to The Times chief sports reporter Martyn Ziegler, the case is expected to be conducted over the next several months with a verdict reached in January. While this gives plenty of time for Man City to potentially make up for any penalty handed out before the 2024-25 season wraps in May, the fallout from any potential decision could drag on beyond that timeframe.
