Pep Guardiola is reportedly planning a surprise return to the Etihad Stadium in a show of support to his former club Manchester City. The Spaniard is expected to attend City's next home game, against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on October 14. It is understood he has told senior club figures he would like to "be with his people".
Club in Crisis After Guilty Verdict
City have been engulfed in a total crisis since being found guilty by an independent commission of all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations between 2009 and 2018. The club continues to plead its innocence and has lodged an appeal.
Guardiola stood down as manager at the end of last season and has been spending time back in Barcelona taking a break from the game. He won a staggering 20 trophies in just 10 years, although his legacy will now be tainted due to the fact some of his success was achieved during the timeframe which has been investigated.
Guardiola's Message of Support
Guardiola was also in charge during the entirety of the four-year investigation. He was consistently asked about the matter, but always insisted club bosses had told him there had been no wrongdoing. Earlier this week, he took to social media to post a message of support to his former club.
Guardiola, who was City manager between 2016 and 2026, said: "I want every single Manchester City fan across the world 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."
