Pep Guardiola has spoken out publicly for the first time since Manchester City received their verdict in one of football's most high-profile financial misconduct cases. The Premier League's independent commission found City guilty of 114 out of 115 charges relating to alleged financial rule breaches spanning nine seasons, from 2009/10 through to 2017/18. Among the key findings, the panel concluded that City had set up what it described as "sham" commercial contracts and artificially inflated club revenues by over £830 million across that period.
Manchester City were found guilty of 114 out of 115 charges, with the commission ruling the club had inflated revenues by over £830 million. The club has denied any wrongdoing and is preparing to mount a formal appeal. The commission found that just £119.25 million of nearly £950 million in reported Abu Dhabi-linked sponsorship revenue was paid by the sponsors. No sanction has been announced, and the appeal deadline is October 2, 2026.
Guardiola, who departed the Etihad Stadium at the close of last season after a decade at the helm, wasted no time making his loyalties clear once the verdict landed. In a post shared on Instagram, the Spaniard directed his words squarely at the club's global fanbase. He expressed his solidarity with the club, its owner, chairman, players, staff, and supporters.
Throughout the years the charges were being examined, Guardiola was a vocal defender of City's position, repeatedly insisting he trusted the club's leadership and that everything achieved on the pitch remained beyond question. He even went as far as saying he would stand by City if they faced relegation as a consequence of the case.
Guardiola's statement carries considerable weight given how closely his name is tied to the club's most successful era. The statement has been seen as a rallying message directed at the club's supporters worldwide. The UK government has also sent a warning to Manchester City over the 115 charges.
The Premier League's case against Manchester City has been one of the most high-profile financial misconduct cases in football. The club has maintained its innocence and will appeal the verdict. The appeal deadline is October 2, 2026, and no sanction has been announced.
Guardiola's message to City fans has been well-received, with supporters showing their appreciation for his loyalty and commitment to the club. The Spaniard's future at the club is no longer a concern, as he left City at the end of last season. His statement has been seen as a show of support for the club during a difficult time.
Key points
- Manchester City found guilty of 114 out of 115 financial misconduct charges
- Pep Guardiola expresses solidarity with Manchester City supporters
- The club plans to appeal the verdict, with the appeal deadline set for October 2, 2026
