Ligue 1

Guardiola Backs Manchester City Amid Financial-Rule Violations

By Hugo Brennan

Guardiola Backs Manchester City Amid Financial-Rule Violations

The message arrived in a difficult moment for Manchester City: Pep Guardiola, now away from football after leaving the club last summer, has publicly backed the institution, its staff and its supporters following the club’s financial-rule violations.

Guardiola breaks his silence

Guardiola has stepped back from the game after more than 13 uninterrupted years in management, but his separation from City has not weakened his attachment to the club.

On Wednesday, the Spanish coach used social media to send a message to everyone connected with Manchester City as the club faces a turbulent period after being found guilty of financial breaches.

  • Guardiola’s Manchester City contract ended last summer.
  • He is currently taking time away from coaching after a managerial run lasting more than 13 years.
  • His statement came after City were found guilty of financial infractions.
  • He addressed the club’s ownership, leadership, players, staff and fanbase.

A message for the whole club

Guardiola made clear that his support extends far beyond the team on the pitch. He named the club’s owner, chairman, chief executive Ferran Soriano, the players, staff and Enzo Maresca, while reserving special words for City supporters.

“I want every Manchester City supporter to know that I am with you now more than ever,” Guardiola wrote. “I support this club, as I always have and always will. I support my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, the staff, Enzo and our exceptional fans.

“Let there be no doubt: we will come through this together. I love you all.”

Support amid an unsettled spell

The former City manager’s intervention was a show of unity at a time when the club is dealing with the consequences of the financial case. Despite no longer being in charge, Guardiola presented himself as still closely tied to the people and supporters he worked alongside in Manchester.