- The Premier League's investigation into Manchester City’s financial dealings has been ongoing for years, with the verdict finally approaching
- Guardiola defended City's spending, claiming their net spend over the past five years is lower than other top-six clubs
- Manchester City currently sit fifth in the Premier League, a position that may still secure Champions League qualification
Manchester City’s long-standing battle against the Premier League’s financial rule breach allegations is nearing a resolution, with manager Pep Guardiola revealing that a verdict is expected within the next month.
The City boss made the claim ahead of his team’s FA Cup fixture against Leyton Orient, signalling that the club is preparing for the outcome of the extensive investigation.
The reigning Premier League champions have been under scrutiny since being hit with 115 charges related to financial rule breaches between 2009 and 2018. A hearing into the allegations commenced in September 2024 and lasted three months, with the decision expected to be disclosed in the first quarter of 2025.
Speaking to the media, Guardiola stated,
“In one month, I think there will be a verdict and a sentence. After that, we will see my opinion of what happened so far.”
His comments have again brought up discussions over the potential repercussions for the club, with a points deduction or even relegation among the reported possible outcomes if found guilty.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Manchester City have continued to invest heavily in their squad. During the just concluded winter transfer window, they spent a record-breaking £180 million on new signings, including Abdoukodir Khusanov (£33.6m), Vitor Reis (£29.6m), Omar Marmoush (£63m), and Nico Gonzales (£50m).
This marked the second-highest winter spending spree in Premier League history, trailing only Chelsea’s 2023 splurge.
Guardiola defended City's spending, stating,
“My words will not convince people. I know with this club, it is always ‘just about the money.’ But in the past five years, we are the last among the top six for net spend.”
As things stand, City sits outside the automatic UEFA Champions League qualification spots, currently in fifth place. However, due to a potential restructuring of the qualification process, a fifth-place finish might still secure a spot in next season’s competition.
The football world now awaits the final decision, which could significantly impact the club’s immediate and long-term future.
“We had good moments, but...,” Guardiola laments Man City’s chances against Aston Villa
Previously, TheRadar reported that Premier League champions Manchester City’s alarming dip in form continued as they slumped to a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa at Villa Park, leaving Pep Guardiola searching for answers.
Despite another disappointing result, Guardiola defended his team’s performance, emphasising glimpses of quality but admitting their struggles to convert opportunities proved costly.
