Sky Sports has instructed its pundits to “stick to the facts” and avoid “snap judgements” when commenting on the forthcoming verdict in the Premier League’s legal battle with Manchester City, according to reports.
The broadcaster has written to staff ahead of the decision on City’s 115 alleged breaches of financial rules.
The verdict is expected “within the next month or so” according to the Daily Mail.
High-profile pundits including Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher and Roy Keane have been cautioned about their on-air and social media commentary on this sensitive case.
Sky Sports has instructed its pundits to “stick to the facts” and avoid “snap judgements” when commenting on the forthcoming verdict in the Premier League’s legal battle with Manchester City
PA
Sky has taken the unusual step of preparing staff for what is anticipated to be a landmark ruling.
Officials at Sky have reportedly shared a factfile on the long-running case with staff members.
The document warns that both Manchester City and the Premier League may claim victory regardless of the outcome.
Staff have been reminded that any verdict and potential punishment could be subject to an appeal.
Manchester City have been accused of 115 breaches of Premier League financial rules over a nine-year period from 2009 to 2018
PA
This guidance follows a previous legal battle last year between City and the Premier League over sponsorship rules.
In that case, both sides attempted to frame the outcome as favourable to their position.
The factfile includes a timeline of events and key quotes to help pundits understand the complex situation.
Social media posts about the verdict will also require careful consideration, according to the guidance.
Sky’s unusual move is aimed at ensuring accurate, fair and balanced reporting on what internal communications describe as a “huge, significant and complex story.”
The broadcaster wants to avoid any controversy in what is an incredibly sensitive matter.
The newspaper says that Sky views the upcoming verdict as particularly significant, which explains the extraordinary preparations.
The email sent to pundits asks them to allow “sufficient time to digest the outcome” before commenting.
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Manchester City have been accused of 115 breaches of Premier League financial rules over a nine-year period from 2009 to 2018.
The allegations include failing to provide accurate details on player and manager contracts.
City are also accused of failing to provide accurate financial information and not cooperating with the Premier League’s investigation.
The club has “strongly refuted any wrongdoing” throughout the process.
Man City have always denied any wrongdoing amid their legal battle with the Premier League
PA
If found guilty of some of the more serious alleged breaches, City could face a range of punishments.
These potential sanctions include hefty fines and points deductions.
There would also be the prospect of legal action from some of City’s Premier League rivals.