Guardiola breaks his silence and backs City after the ruling

Pep Guardiola, former Manchester City manager, breaks his silence after an independent commission found the club guilty of 114 fair‑play charges, and posts on social media a message of support to the fans and the board, including Khaldoon Al Mubarak.

Sentence and possible sanction

The commission found Manchester City responsible for serious financial infringements covering a nine‑year period between 2009 and 2018. So far no sanction has been imposed and the club has announced its intention to appeal the decision.

Ferran Soriano, chief executive, confirmed that the club will consider the ruling erroneous in law, principle and fact, and warned that the appeal process could be considerably prolonged.

Legacy and link with City

In his message, Guardiola wrote: “I want every single Manchester City fan to know that I am here; more than ever,” and added his support for owner Sheikh Mansour, president Khaldoon Al Mubarak, chief executive Ferran Soriano, manager Enzo Maresca and the entire squad.

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The former manager also stated: “I am, have always been and will always be supporting my club, my owner, my president, Ferran, the players, the coaching staff, Enzo and you, our unique fans. Let it be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.”

Guardiola managed Manchester City for ten years between 2016 and 2026, amassing 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and one Champions League. The period investigated by the Premier League covers the 2008‑09 season through 2017‑18; he was in charge only for the latter two, winning the Premier League and the League Cup in the second.

The 55‑year‑old left the Etihad bench in June, after the season finale, and was replaced by his former assistant Enzo Maresca. His departure coincided with the conclusion of the legal process, although he had already defended the club during the investigation.

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The information comes from an AI‑generated audio, credited to Dave Thompson of Ap‑LaPresse, which includes Guardiola’s full statement and the details of the ruling.