Pep Guardiola has launched an attack on Manchester City’s Premier League rivals days before the start of the club’s 115 charges hearing.
The hearing into Manchester City’s alleged breaches of Premier League rules is set to commence on Monday, following a protracted investigation into the defending champions. The charges cover a period from 2009 to 2018, with City accused of multiple rule violations, all of which the club denies.
City faces allegations of not providing accurate financial information, incorrect details on player and manager payments, breaching profit and sustainability regulations, failing to adhere to UEFA’s financial fair play rules, and not cooperating with the Premier League’s investigation. The club asserts they have “irrefutable evidence” to refute the charges, and the case will be resolved by an independent panel.
Speculation exists about possible penalties if City is found guilty, with relegation mentioned as one option, though a significant points deduction and fine are seen as more likely. The final verdict and any potential appeals are expected after the 2024/25 season.
La Liga president Javier Tebas stated that many of City’s Premier League rivals want to see the club sanctioned, even before the hearing begins. He also referenced a past case where City’s European ban was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
In response to Tebas, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola suggested that all Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool, desire City to face penalties. He urged patience, emphasizing that justice should be determined by the independent panel and not influenced by external opinions.
Pep Guardiola has criticized Manchester City’s Premier League rivals and defended the club ahead of their hearing on 115 charges, set to start on Monday. The allegations span from 2009 to 2018 and include accusations of financial misconduct and non-cooperation with investigations. City denies all charges and claims to have “irrefutable evidence” to support their defense.
Guardiola, speaking before City’s Premier League match against Brentford on Saturday, expressed confidence in the independent panel that will handle the case. He dismissed speculation about potential penalties, suggesting that the process will reveal the truth. He also took a swipe at La Liga president Javier Tebas, who claimed many Premier League clubs want City punished. Guardiola argued that everyone should wait for the panel’s decision and emphasized that justice should be based on the facts, not on external opinions.
