Pep Guardiola has expressed his relief at the forthcoming start of Manchester City’s much-anticipated hearing over alleged violations of the Premier League’s financial regulations. The Manchester side, presently facing 115 charges, was referred to an independent board in February 2023 after a four-year-long league enquiry. The purported financial infractions took place between 2009 and 2018, and in addition, City has been charged with not collaborating with the investigation.
Guardiola, the City manager, shared his eagerness for the prompt beginning and conclusion of the hearing, with the decision to be made by an independent committee. City, champions of six out of the past seven seasons, are rumoured to potentially receive a substantial point deduction, a hefty fine, or even expulsion from the competition if found guilty.
Despite denying any wrongful actions, the club alleges having “incontestable evidence” to vindicate themselves. Reports suggest that the hearing may run for 10 weeks, with an expected verdict early in the forthcoming year, although an appeal procedure might extend the proceedings.
Guardiola, in a press conference previewing Saturday’s match against Brentford, refuted any claims that the issue has sidetracked his team. He asserted that it’s a matter for the independent panel and any outcome will be accepted.
Guardiola welcomed the progression towards a resolution but insisted that regardless of external perceptions, the club should be presumed innocent until proven otherwise. He affirmed his belief that everyone is innocent until guilt is confirmed. He concluded by stating they’re all anxiously waiting for the outcome of the hearing.
This month, City are faced with the challenge of playing two games in three days due to their Carabao Cup match against Watford at the Etihad Stadium fixed for Tuesday, September 24th, just two days after their domestic battle with their Premier League title competitors, Arsenal on Sunday, September 22nd.
Guardiola dismissed the option to shift the game to Thursday, as it would mean a very short recovery time ahead of their game against Newcastle early the subsequent Saturday. He chose not to opt for Wednesday as it would clash with a Manchester United game and rejected the potential of altering the fixture to Vicarage Road.
Guardiola acknowledges the inconveniences of the match schedules but doesn’t see the merit in sharing his grievances. “These scheduling complications are becoming increasingly common. It’s unfeasible to properly arrange all the fixtures and dates,” he stated.
“Even though people claim that wealthy players and managers should abstain from objections, it’s a question of well-being. Medical experts advise a recovery period of four or five days. Previously, we had three days and now it’s down to two.
“No matter the size of our paychecks, we will persevere because of our passion for the game. The game against Arsenal on Sunday won’t be a walk in the park, and two days later we’re up against Watford.
“Our stance won’t shift, these discussions with the authorities are pointless. If they conclude that they’re proceeding with the fixture, they’ll just go ahead.”
Guardiola confirmed that he will delegate the decision of playing in Saturday’s game to top scorer Haaland as he is still dealing with the loss of a family friend. Furthermore, Nathan Ake has been ruled out due to a thigh injury for a duration of a month.