Arsenal informed of Premier League rule change amid Man City 115 charges update

Premier League clubs under investigation for suspected rule breaches must abide by several new rules this season.

The league's handbook for the coming campaign contains multiple changes, including additions to its arbitration and disciplinary sections. To the latter, the alteration is to their power of inquiry.

Rule W.1 states that "the Board shall have power to inquire into any suspected or alleged breach of these Rules." It adds "for that purpose may require: any Manager, Match Official, Official or Player to appear before it to answer questions and/or provide information; and any such Person or any Club to produce documents."

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Rule W.2 now adds, that: "Upon a Club becoming aware of the Board commencing an inquiry into a suspected or alleged breach of these Rules by that Club under Rule W.1 (whether under Rules W.1.1, W.1.2 or otherwise), that Club must (a) immediately preserve all documents and information (in their/its existing format) in its possession or control that are/is, or might reasonably be considered to be, relevant to the inquiry or any disciplinary proceedings that might reasonably be expected to follow the inquiry, pending further direction from the Board.

"(b) as soon as practicable, notify all current Officials, Directors and Players of that Club who are connected with the subject or subjects of the inquiry and inform them that they must do the same and (c) as soon as practicable, take reasonable steps to notify all former Officials, Directors or Players of the Club who are connected with the subject or subjects of the inquiry and inform them that they must do the same."

Rule X.12 also states: "Upon appointment all arbitrators must sign a statement of impartiality confirming that (a) they are not aware of any circumstances that might reasonably give rise to justifiable doubts as to their impartiality or independence in relation to the dispute concerned and (b) they are ready, willing and able to devote sufficient time, diligence and industry to ensure the expeditious and efficient conduct of the arbitration.

"Any arbitrator not signing such a statement within seven days of appointment may not act, and the party appointing them must nominate another arbitrator within seven days, subject to the provisions in Rules X.8 to X.11."

The Times claims the rule change around sufficient time would be welcome to many clubs in light of the ongoing inquiry into Manchester City and their 130 alleged rule breaches. Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham are among the clubs waiting for a ruling on the allegations, which isn't expected to happen until October this year.