Pep Guardiola firmly believed Manchester City had conducted themselves properly regarding the 115 charges brought against them by the Premier League. The former City manager will undoubtedly be stunned to learn his former club has been found guilty of 114 of those charges.
The penalties facing Enzo Maresca's side are yet to be determined, but could include a substantial fine, a points deduction, or even expulsion from the Premier League. City are contesting the verdict and are widely expected to lodge an appeal.
Guardiola's Confidence in the Club
The Citizens were first hit with the charges three and a half years ago, during Guardiola's tenure. Before his departure earlier this year, he maintained absolute confidence that the club had acted in good faith throughout.
The alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations for which City have now been found guilty are said to have occurred between 2009 and 2018. Guardiola, who took charge in 2016, robustly defended the club throughout his time there, and when pressed on his reasoning, the legendary boss simply stated: "I trust them."
He added: "I spoke with them and trust how they behave and how they did. What happened, happened."
Guardiola's Commitment and Reaction
A return to Manchester could be on the horizon, after Guardiola hinted he would come back for a press conference should a verdict on the charges be reached. He said: "If you find me, yeah, but that will be difficult."
Guardiola sought to reassure supporters over the looming charges in November 2024, when he pledged to remain with the club even if they faced relegation. He signed a fresh two-year deal to reaffirm his commitment to the club, telling Sky Sports at the time: "You have my interviews here that say the same, so not because now I extend the contract and pretend to be, 'Oh how nice is Pep?'
"I said six months ago, one year ago when all the clubs accused us of having done something - what happened if you got relegated? I will be here. I don't know the position of the conference they're going to bring us, we're going to come up and come up, we're going to come back to the Premier League. I knew it then, I feel it now."
Club's Official Response
An official City statement addressing the latest explosive developments read: "The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality. As such Manchester City FC's position remains consistent with the club's statement of February 2023.
"The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair minded regulator, free from partisan influence."
