According to ESPN, Manchester City knew they faced charges of breaching more than 100 Premier League financial rules before the summer transfer window.

The outcome of the arbitration hearing was announced on Friday. However, sources told ESPN that Manchester City's executives were informed of the independent commission's decision in July. Subsequently, Manchester City pursued an aggressive transfer strategy during the summer window, spending over £450 million (£596 million) to acquire seven new first-team players.

Manchester City broke their club transfer record twice: first by signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, and then Enzo Fernández from Chelsea for £125 million, with the latter setting a joint record in English football.

Sources stated that the Anderson deal was agreed before Manchester City learned of the independent commission's decision. Manchester City reached an agreement to sign him on 2 July, and he officially completed his move on 23 July.

When ESPN contacted Manchester City on Tuesday, the club declined to comment. The Premier League stated on Friday that it would not comment on "private and confidential proceedings".

Manchester City's summer signings helped Maresca's team make a strong start to the new season, winning all seven matches across all competitions.

Having won their first five league matches, Manchester City leads the Premier League table by three points ahead of defending champions Arsenal.

Manchester City has maintained its innocence since being charged by the Premier League in February 2023. Sources at the club have made clear that if found guilty, the club intends to appeal.

In a statement released on Friday, Manchester City said: "Premier League proceedings continue, with important stages yet to be completed, and they are subject to strict confidentiality requirements.

Therefore, Manchester City Football Club's position remains unchanged from the club's statement in February 2023.

The club has acted with due process in good faith over eight years, as we believe the Premier League board and management will act as an independent, impartial and fair regulator, free from any partisan influence".

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