Pep Guardiola will be back at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night to show public support for Manchester City after the 115 guilty verdicts. The Catalan left in summer after 10 years in charge but will be in attendance as the Blues take on Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.
Guardiola's social media message
Guardiola had said when he left City that he would speak when a verdict was announced 'if he could be found' - but spoke on social media the day after news of the club's guilt was reported in the media.
He wrote: "I want every single fan to know I am here; more than ever. I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran [Soriano, CEO], the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters. Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all."
Public backing amid appeal
The former City boss had planned to stay in the background to allow his successor Enzo Maresca the best chance of success. However, Guardiola - whose own legacy has been questioned since the club's guilt was confirmed by a three-man panel - wants to show public backing for his employers and so will be in attendance for the first game at the Etihad since the news broke.
City have continued to insist on their innocence since the publication of a damning 40-page decision from the independent commission. Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has written an open letter to fans and Ferran Soriano sent a video message to all staff, with an appeal confirmed last week.
