Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has asserted that his team will respect the outcome of the independent commission’s investigation into the club’s alleged 115 financial irregularities, as accused by the Premier League. These allegations, which the club refutes, trace back to 2009 and emerged against the champions in February 2023. The case is expected to be presented this fall. Guardiola stresses that the impending court hearing won’t impede his players’ performance.
“I am looking forward to the proceedings commencing and concluding soon,” expressed Guardiola. “It serves everyone’s benefit, primarily the club’s, but also other Premier League clubs and all individuals awaiting the verdict.”
He earnestly hopes for a swift trial before an independent body and, as always, will accept their judgement. According to Guardiola, the multiple years of discussion surrounding this case have caused no disturbance.
When questioned about the case’s timing and its potential influence on his team’s performance as they aim for another Premier League title among other achievements, Guardiola declared, “We know it’s imminent, we accept it, and our focus is on our matches.”
On Friday, it was confirmed that Ilkay Gündogan has been re-signed by City. The player, 33 years old, has returned to City after a year at Barcelona. Gündogan, who clinched 12 big titles including five Premier Leagues and a Champions League during his first seven seasons at City, is expected to play against Ipswich Town on Saturday if his international clearance is timely sorted.
Guardiola was keen on welcoming Gündogan back to City but insisted that he would have to earn his spot like every other player. If Gündogan fails to deliver, options like Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Rodri, Mateo Kovacic, Matheus Nunes, James McAtee, and Lewis Rico, will be considered. “He has to prove his worth daily to sustain the club’s high level,” concluded Guardiola.
Rodri is uncertain to participate in the upcoming match against Ipswich due to an injury he suffered while playing for his national team. He was absent during City’s first-week triumph over Chelsea. Guardiola mentioned that Rodri continues to experience discomfort and it remains unclear if he will return to group training sessions today. This information was revealed by The Guardian.