Financial Fair Play and Financial Reporting Compliance: Lessons From the Manchester City Case
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations serve as a financial governance mechanism in professional football, aimed at fostering financial sustainability, transparency, and club accountability. The effectiveness of these regulations depends not only on the existence of the rules themselves but also on the quality of financial reporting, the openness of information, and the consistency with which the regulations are enforced. This study aims to analyze the relationship between Financial Fair Play regulations and financial reporting compliance, drawing lessons from the case of Manchester City. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, utilizing a literature review method that examines scientific publications, regulatory documents, financial governance frameworks, and public information relevant to the financial management of professional football clubs. The analysis focuses on the role of financial reporting in demonstrating compliance with regulations, the challenges involved in verifying financial information and related-party transactions, and the implications of regulatory enforcement for club accountability. The findings indicate that compliance with financial regulations requires reliable information, transparent revenue disclosure, adequate documentation of commercial transactions, and effective internal control systems. The Manchester City case also highlights the importance of distinguishing between alleged violations, the investigative process, and the final findings established by the relevant authorities. Furthermore, consistent oversight, independent verification, and the application of proportionate sanctions are essential for strengthening the credibility of financial governance in football. This study asserts that financial reporting compliance cannot be assessed solely based on the fulfillment of administrative requirements; rather, it must be underpinned by high-quality information, transparency, and substantive accountability. This research is expected to contribute to the development of sports accounting and serve as a reference for club management, auditors, regulators, and policymakers in enhancing the quality of transparent and sustainable financial reporting.
Language: English
Subfield: Accounting
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funder: Politecnico di Torino
OpenAlex ID: W7225115698