Klopp praises Guardiola as Manchester City faces £1bn breach sanctions

Jurgen Klopp, now Germany's senior manager, praised Pep Guardiola even as Manchester City grapple with a Premier League finding of financial misconduct. The contrast between Klopp's admiration and the club's looming penalties frames a rare moment of mutual respect amid controversy.

Klopp stressed that his regard for Guardiola remains "far too great" to comment on the verdict, insisting his admiration stems from the way City played during their rivalry with Liverpool.

Financial breach findings

The Premier League concluded that the FA Cup‑holding club engaged in an almost £1bn scheme of sham arrangements designed to inflate revenues or cut costs, thereby sidestepping both league and UEFA financial rules.

City, eight‑time Premier League champions, now face severe sanctions, yet they have declared their intention to appeal the decision without delay.

Klopp’s press conference response

Klopp addressed the verdict for the first time at Germany’s Nations League preview press conference on Wednesday, ahead of the tie with Serbia.

He said: “I haven’t given it much thought but of course I’ve seen it… My respect for Pep Guardiola and the football played at City during the time we played each other is far too great for me to say anything now. Should any sanctions be imposed, I naturally have nothing to do with it anyway.”

Guardiola’s official account posted a supportive message on 30 September 2026, stating, “I want every single @ManCity fan to know I am here; more than ever… I love you all.”

The exchange underlines how two of football’s most prominent figures can maintain personal respect despite a club’s legal troubles, leaving fans to watch the appeal process unfold.