Rio Ferdinand demands Manchester City get back the 2011‑12 title

The former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, said yesterday that he wanted to retrieve the Premier League 2011‑12 title medal that was awarded to him by Manchester City, after the club was found guilty of 114 breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations between 2009 and 2018.

Financial breaches and threat of sanctions

The club was found responsible for 114 breaches out of the 115 charges brought by the Premier League. The contemplated sanctions include fines, points deductions and the possible revocation of the titles won by the Citizens during the period in question. If the 2011‑12 title were withdrawn, it could be awarded to Manchester United, the second‑placed team.

Beyond the 2011‑12 championship, the allegations also cover the 2017‑18 season, which could also be subject to the same measure. The final decision will depend on the outcome of the appeal the club intends to file. Observers are awaiting a response that could take several months.

Ferdinand targets Joleon Lescott

In his show “Rio Ferdinand Presents”, the legendary defender directly called out former defender Joleon Lescott, who was a Manchester City (CITY) player during the season in question. “The next time Joleon shows up, he’d better bring me my… medal,” he said. He added that he would go “to his place and tell him: give it to me.”

Rooney rejects extra Premier League medal as United face City fallout

Ferdinand clarified that the players could not be held responsible for the officials’ failings. “They were the best team in the country, with the best manager,” he asserted, while stressing the need for appropriate sanctions if guilt is confirmed. He reminded that the Man City players had been the best.

Wayne Rooney’s reactions and implications

His former teammate Wayne Rooney expressed his discomfort at the idea of accepting another medal. “Honestly, I wouldn’t feel comfortable accepting another Premier League medal,” he said on the Stick To United show. He recalled that the Citizens had led the race with a six‑ or seven‑point lead with four or five games to go, before losing it all.

Rooney pointed out that, if the titles were stripped, Manchester United would inherit the 2011‑12 and 2017‑18 championships, while Liverpool could receive the 2013‑14 title, according to his remarks. He concluded that he was “happy with the five I won,” but he would not want this one.

Wayne Rooney says he’d feel uneasy if Man City lose title

The club said it will lodge an appeal and that the final decision could come in several months. Ferdinand reminded that the elapsed time was “the most frustrating,” but that City supporters will have to stay focused while awaiting the verdict. He concluded that, whatever happens, the players will be perceived differently.