Jose Mourinho has joked that he may have reached the age of 80 by the time Manchester City discover their final punishment in their long-running financial case.
Manchester City were found guilty of serious financial breaches following the largest disciplinary case in Premier League history. The allegations concern a period of almost nine years, from 2009 to 2018.
The club’s appeal has added another stage to a case that has shaken English football. Manchester City are attempting to overturn the ruling and clear their name, but the legal process is expected to continue for some time.
Mourinho, who is currently manager of Real Madrid, suggested the proceedings could last so long that he might not be alive to see the final outcome.
His comments, reported by The Sun, came during an interview with Corriere dello Sport.
“Manchester City? I think we should laugh a little about it,” Mourinho said.
“I think we will get to a result, but as I am in my sixties, I will have to be lucky enough to still be around when the final verdict is delivered.”
He added: “There will be a judgment now, then there will be an appeal. I will be 80 years old.”
Manchester City face the possibility of severe sporting and financial sanctions if their appeal is unsuccessful. Potential penalties include a substantial points deduction or expulsion from the Premier League.
The club could also be stripped of its titles if that punishment is considered appropriate.
Such a decision could have implications for Mourinho, whose Manchester United side finished second in the Premier League during the 2017-2018 season. If Manchester City were deprived of the title for that campaign, Mourinho could be awarded another Premier League championship.
The case remains one of the most significant disciplinary disputes in English football, with Manchester City continuing to challenge the findings through the appeals process.