Leicester City's Premier League dreams are rapidly unraveling as they face an unprecedented six-point deduction, courtesy of their alleged breach of financial rules. The punishment, imposed by an independent disciplinary commission, has left the Foxes teetering on the edge of relegation danger in the Championship, with only goal difference separating them from the bottom two spots.
The hearing took place in November after Leicester were accused of breaching profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) for a three-season period ending with 2023-24. The club also faced additional charges for failing to cooperate and submit their financial accounts on time. In a stunning display of fiscal mismanagement, Leicester's profits were found to have plummeted by £20.8m over the same timeframe, far exceeding the maximum permitted losses of £83m.
Leicester City's situation has become increasingly dire following a dismal run of form, with three defeats in their last four league matches. The club is now searching for a new head coach after sacking Martí Cifuentes just months into his three-year contract. Andy King, a key member of the 2016 Premier League-winning squad, has been drafted in as interim manager, while Leicester are close to appointing a technical director and new chief executive.
The EFL board applied the sanction with immediate effect, citing regulation 87.7 that gives the league the power to implement sanctions equivalent to those recommended by an independent Premier League commission or appeal board. Leicester City's response has been one of disappointment and frustration, with the club stating they believe the penalty is "disproportionate" and are reviewing the decision in full.
As the Foxes struggle to navigate this treacherous waters, their future remains uncertain. With relegation now a very real possibility, it remains to be seen whether Leicester City can recover from this financial setback or if their once-proud institution will succumb to the pressures of the Championship.
The hearing took place in November after Leicester were accused of breaching profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) for a three-season period ending with 2023-24. The club also faced additional charges for failing to cooperate and submit their financial accounts on time. In a stunning display of fiscal mismanagement, Leicester's profits were found to have plummeted by £20.8m over the same timeframe, far exceeding the maximum permitted losses of £83m.
Leicester City's situation has become increasingly dire following a dismal run of form, with three defeats in their last four league matches. The club is now searching for a new head coach after sacking Martí Cifuentes just months into his three-year contract. Andy King, a key member of the 2016 Premier League-winning squad, has been drafted in as interim manager, while Leicester are close to appointing a technical director and new chief executive.
The EFL board applied the sanction with immediate effect, citing regulation 87.7 that gives the league the power to implement sanctions equivalent to those recommended by an independent Premier League commission or appeal board. Leicester City's response has been one of disappointment and frustration, with the club stating they believe the penalty is "disproportionate" and are reviewing the decision in full.
As the Foxes struggle to navigate this treacherous waters, their future remains uncertain. With relegation now a very real possibility, it remains to be seen whether Leicester City can recover from this financial setback or if their once-proud institution will succumb to the pressures of the Championship.