London, U.K. – Nick de Marco KC, a prominent sports lawyer noted for his defense of former Manchester City player Benjamin Mendy, recently expressed his views on potential penalties Manchester City might face amid accusations of serious financial violations. De Marco, an experienced barrister at Blackstone Chambers, has previously engaged in legal battles with the club, successfully representing Mendy in a case concerning unpaid wages of approximately $14 million.
Despite his earlier adversarial role, De Marco argues against relegation as a penalty for financial infractions within football clubs, including Manchester City. Mendy’s own legal battle with the club began after his monthly salary of $630,000 was suspended following his arrest on charges of sex offenses in August 2021, charges from which he was later acquitted.
De Marco’s legal confrontations with Manchester City underscore his broader belief that football issues such as promotion and relegation should be resolved on the field rather than in courtroom deliberations. Speaking to The Times last year, De Marco criticized the practice of settling such matters through legal and financial expert arbitration, which often occurs in private settings.
“In my view, things as important as promotion and relegation should be determined on the pitch,” De Marco stated, expressing concern over the spirit of the game being compromised by decisions made in secluded legal hearings. He also noted the potential conflict of interest given his profession: “I’m going to make my money out of it, that’s my business. But I don’t necessarily think it’s right.”
Further expanding on football penalties, De Marco spoke against routine point deductions, suggesting they should be considered only as a last resort. He acknowledged the rationale behind point deductions as a means to address unfair advantages gained through financial indiscretion but cautioned against their overuse, which he believes detracts from the sport’s enjoyment.
The ongoing scrutiny of Manchester City follows the Premier League’s lodging of over 100 allegations of financial misconduct against the club in February 2023. The proceedings, which began in September, are being held privately, keeping many details under wraps. The confidential nature of the hearing reflects the often opaque processes involved in such high-profile sports law cases.
De Marco’s comments reflect a wider debate on the appropriate consequences for financial irregularities in sports and underscore the tension between maintaining fair competition and preserving the integrity and entertainment value of the game.
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