Manchester City has been hit with a £1.08 million fine by the Premier League for repeated delays to kick-offs during the 2023–24 season.
According to league officials, the reigning champions were found to have breached timing regulations in nine matches between October and February, with the most notable delay—two minutes and 24 seconds—occurring before the second half of the Manchester derby at Old Trafford in December.
The Premier League confirmed that City admitted to the infractions and issued an apology. “Timely kick-offs and restarts are crucial for maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring consistency for clubs, fans, and broadcasters,” the league said in a statement on Thursday.
This isn’t the first time the club has faced penalties for timing issues. Last season, City was fined over £2 million for 22 similar violations.
Despite the setbacks, Pep Guardiola’s side managed a third-place finish in the Premier League, marking the end of their four-year title dominance. Their season also ended on a sour note with a surprise FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace.
City is currently in the United States, competing in the FIFA Club World Cup.
