The jaw-dropping financial breaches by Manchester City – which were only revealed when a hacker managed to break into emails and documents of City’s top officials – have rocked the football world.
Fans are questioning the credibility of football regulations, while bettors are wondering what may happen on the pitch as soon as the international break ends in a few days.
Despite the shocking news, City is still loved and respected, even among former rival players. However, the question of whether betting on this team is still profitable is on every bettor’s mind at the moment.
An extreme volatility is expected over the next 12 weeks of the case hearing, until the final verdict is made by the English football authority (FA). Here are some tips to respond to this unprecedented situation.
Premier League outright and futures markets may become riskier
Betting on the club that will lift the trophy at the end of this season may become riskier than ever. While Man City still technically has every chance of winning the title again, we need to take into account how a potential point deduction and other punishments could affect their position in the league.
It may be wise to avoid betting on City in long-term futures markets. Instead, consider rival clubs, such as Arsenal and Liverpool. Their odds of winning the Premier League outright could shorten significantly if City receives a points deduction or other penalties. The same could happen in the Top 4 market, as City’s potential punishment could improve the chances of its rivals finishing among the league’s top four.
Think twice before betting on Manchester City’s relegation
A wild speculation among fans and pundits about whether Man City will be relegated has prompted some bettors to consider placing a similar wager. In case you don’t know, bookmaker’s definition of relegation generally does not take into account off-the-pitch cases, nor do Man City’s terms.
Let’s say The Citizens are relegated. This does not necessarily mean your bet will win. A large number of sportsbooks make it clear in their terms and conditions that any boardroom expulsion will be considered a disqualification. All bets on the relegation of any team will be voided, and your stake will be refunded.
Consider in-play betting
Numerous bookmakers and bettors still believe in Haaland & Friends’s ability and professionalism to win in every match. Many of them still price Man City as the public favorite, regardless of the chaos off the pitch.
Even so, the English media is widely known for being among the toughest critics when it comes to football. Like it or not, any off-the-pitch development could put pressure on the players, which may lead to erratic performance.
Live or in-play betting like the markets offered by 188Bet, may be more appropriate than pre-match wagering due to the uncertainty that is now widespread among City’s players.
