De Gea asks how many titles he has won as City found guilty on 114 of 115 charges

David de Gea has responded to Manchester City being found guilty on 114 of 115 Premier League financial charges by playfully questioning how many top-flight titles he has actually won, while Manchester United have moved swiftly to sign teenage midfielder David Eze from their local rivals.

The independent commission’s verdict, which found City guilty of all but one of 115 alleged financial breaches covering the period between 2009 and 2018, sent shockwaves through the football community. City have consistently denied any wrongdoing and confirmed they retain the right to appeal, stating that “significant elements” of the Premier League process remain ongoing and subject to strict confidentiality.

For De Gea, the ruling prompted a wry observation. The former United goalkeeper, who spent 12 years at Old Trafford making 545 appearances, won the Premier League with the club in 2013 but finished as runner-up to City in 2012, 2018 and 2021. Writing on X, the 35-year-old said: “So...... Let’s talk. How many Premier League titles have I won then?”

While any potential penalties for City — including the possibility of points deductions or title stripping — remain undecided, De Gea’s post captured a sentiment felt by many connected to clubs that finished behind City during the years under scrutiny.

Away from the fallout of the verdict, United have completed the signing of David Eze from City. The 16-year-old central midfielder has signed a deal that includes a pre-professional contract, which will convert to professional terms when he turns 17. Eze, who progressed through City’s academy and has been capped by England at youth level, becomes the second City youngster to cross Manchester in quick succession, following Karrim Cassim’s move to Old Trafford just days earlier.

A United club statement confirmed: “Talented youngster David Eze has joined Manchester United. The central midfielder has joined the club after leaving Manchester City. Everyone wishes David the best of luck at United and welcomes him to the club.”

United’s next fixture does not arrive until 10 October, with Michael Carrick’s side on an international break, but the dual developments — one historic, one developmental — have ensured the club has remained firmly in the headlines.