Maresca says City staff and players trust club after breach verdict

Enzo Maresca told in‑house media that his Man City staff and players “trust completely” the club, despite the Premier League’s independent commission finding the side guilty of more than 100 breaches of financial rules spanning nine seasons. He added that the noise surrounding the case will not distract the group as they chase further points.

Guilty verdict and appeal

The Premier League’s independent commission found Manchester City guilty of more than 100 breaches of financial rules across nine seasons from 2009‑10 to 2017‑18. The club has pleaded innocence, lodged an appeal and warned that the judgment contains material errors of law, principle and fact. Speculation has run rampant about possible sanctions as the season resumes.

Players stay focused on football

The verdict was announced during the three‑week international break, just as striker Erling Haaland urged his teammates to “stick together and enjoy the ride and smile” ahead of Sunday’s clash with Liverpool. Maresca said his squad felt “fantastic” after returning to training.

In an in‑house interview the manager described himself as “very calm” and praised the players for their complete trust in the club. He gave a thumbs‑up on Thursday’s training session and will hold a press conference on Friday. Maresca added the players are excited for the next two games and, crucially, sit top of the league.

Financial findings and club response

The commission concluded that more than £830 million of owner funding was used to inflate revenues through a series of sham contracts. These arrangements were designed to meet Premier League and UEFA regulations.

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Manchester City responded that the judgment is unsafe and riddled with clear material errors, asserting they possess a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence to support their position. The club maintains that the allegations do not reflect the reality of its financial operations.

The player Erling Haaland, who joined Manchester City for £51.2 million in June 2022, echoed his manager’s optimism, urging everyone to stay positive and spread love. He said he cares deeply about the club and its supporters, describing himself as a fan of the City.

Former City boss Pep Guardiola is set to travel to Paris for the Champions League tie against Paris Saint‑Germain on Wednesday, marking his first return to the Etihad since his summer departure. He will watch the match from the stands, supporting his former side.

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Nottingham Forest manager Oliver Glasner called for a swift resolution, saying prolonged uncertainty harms the league’s integrity. Former City player Frank Lampard stressed that the squad’s personal history with titles will not be erased even if any honours are stripped.