Pep Guardiola has responded to Manchester City’s Premier League rivals, accusing them of hoping for punishment against his team over alleged financial misconduct. This comes as City prepare to begin their trial against the league on Monday.
City have faced 115 charges of breaching financial rules over a decade, an investigation that started 18 months ago. Despite similar investigations into Everton, Nottingham Forest, and Leicester for different Profitability and Sustainability rules, City’s case has yet to commence.
Throughout this period, City have been under intense scrutiny from fans and media, with many anticipating the outcome of this unprecedented hearing. The Premier League could potentially impose penalties ranging from point deductions and massive fines to relegation and title stripping.
La Liga president Javier Tebas has suggested that many of City’s Premier League rivals, including recent challengers like Arsenal, have already decided in their minds that City should be sanctioned. Tebas remarked earlier this week, “I have spoken with many Premier League clubs and most of them believe City should be punished.”
Tebas also mentioned that City were previously cleared by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in a separate case with UEFA due to a procedural issue, but emphasized that there are no such limitations for Premier League charges.
Guardiola addressed Tebas’ comments directly, stating, “Maybe he’s right. It’s clear that many Premier League teams want us to be punished. For the first time, I agree with Tebas, and hopefully the last time. I urge Mr. Tebas and the Premier League teams to wait for the independent panel’s decision.”
Guardiola emphasized that justice should follow a democratic process and urged patience until the independent panel reaches a conclusion. “We believe we haven’t done anything wrong and are prepared to accept the decision of the independent panel,” he added.
Guardiola, typically reserved on the matter, expressed his anticipation for the trial to begin. “I’m glad it starts on Monday. There will be more rumors, but we will see what happens. Everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and we will wait for the outcome.”
Arsenal, among other clubs, could benefit if City are found guilty, potentially due to penalties that could affect their standings from recent seasons.
