Guardiola trusted Man City completely before club found guilty of 114 charges

Pep Guardiola left Manchester City this year having consistently and publicly backed the club over the 115 Premier League financial charges that hung over his final seasons in charge — charges the club has now been found guilty of on 114 counts.

The alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules are said to have taken place between 2009 and 2018, a period that overlaps with Guardiola’s appointment in 2016. Throughout his tenure, the Spaniard was unequivocal in his defence of the club. When asked why he stood by them so firmly, his answer was characteristically direct: “I trust them. I spoke with them and trust how they behave and how they did. What happened, happened.”

Guardiola also moved to reassure supporters as the charges loomed large in November 2024, pledging to remain at the club even in the event of relegation. He signed a new two-year contract at the time to underline his commitment, saying: “I said six months ago, one year ago when all the clubs accused us of having done something — what happened if you got relegated? I will be here.”

The manager had also teased a return to Manchester if a verdict on the charges was delivered, telling reporters: “If you find me, yeah, but that will be difficult.”

Sanctions for Enzo Maresca’s side have yet to be determined and could range from a fine to a points deduction or, in the most severe scenario, expulsion from the Premier League. City deny guilt and are expected to appeal the decision.

In a statement, the club said they had “diligently respected due process for eight years” and maintained their position was consistent with their February 2023 statement, adding that “significant elements” of the Premier League process remain ongoing and are “subject to strict confidentiality.”