Haaland urges City unity as sanctions loom after verdict

Erling Haaland stood on the training pitch in Cardiff on Wednesday, Sept 30, 2026, and called on everyone at Manchester City to “stick together” as the club faces a possible expulsion from the Premier League after a panel found it guilty of large‑scale financial rule‑breaking.

Verdict details

The independent panel concluded that City artificially inflated its revenue by reported at between 900 million and 1 billion from 2009 to 2018, breaching financial‑fair‑play rules that limited rival clubs. It found the club guilty of all 80 serious financial charges and warned of severe sanctions, including possible expulsion.

Haaland’s message

In a Thursday interview with, Haaland said: “We have to stick together and we have to spread the love to each other.” When asked about travelling fans, he added: “We have to stay with each other, stay positive and enjoy the ride.” He repeated that a smile and optimism are essential, regardless of what happens.

Premier League bosses react as Manchester City appeal massive financial verdict

City’s first competitive fixture since the verdict comes on Sunday against Liverpool at Anfield, a game that could see a hostile reception for the Skyblues. The match marks the team’s return to the Premier League schedule while the sanction decision remains pending.

The Norwegian striker, who joined Manchester City in 2022, is the first active player to speak publicly on the issue. He is under contract until 2034 and, as captured by photographer Nick Potts, was training in Cardiff when he delivered his remarks.

The Premier League’s investigation was launched in December 2018 and culminated in the September verdict. Manchester City maintains its innocence, contests the findings and has lodged an appeal, awaiting a final sanction date that has not yet been set.