On October 3, The Mirror reported that former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola plans to return to the Etihad Stadium to show his support for his former club, Manchester City, which is currently facing difficulties.
It is understood that Guardiola is expected to attend Manchester City's next home match. Manchester City will host Paris Saint-Germain in a Champions League match on October 14. The Spanish coach has reportedly informed club executives that he wants to "stand with his people."
The club has been in serious crisis since the Premier League independent commission ruled that Manchester City violated Premier League financial regulations between 2009 and 2018.
Manchester City continues to deny the allegations and has filed an appeal.
Guardiola stepped down as Manchester City manager after last season and is currently resting in Barcelona, temporarily away from football.
During his tenure at Manchester City, he won 20 trophies. However, as some of those successes occurred during the period currently under investigation, his coaching achievements could also be affected by this case.
Furthermore, Guardiola was the manager who led Manchester City throughout the four-year investigation. During this time, he was repeatedly questioned about the issue but consistently stated that club executives had assured him there were no irregularities.
Earlier this week, Guardiola also posted on social media to express support for his former club.
Guardiola, who served as Manchester City's manager from 2016 to 2024, wrote:
"I want every Manchester City fan around the world to know that I have always been here, and now more than ever, I support you."
"I have always supported, and will always support my club, my owners, my chairman, Ferran Soriano (Manchester City CEO), the players, the staff, Enzo Maresca, and you, the unique fans. Let me be clear – we will get through this difficult period together. I love you all."
Manchester City, meanwhile, released a statement on Friday, officially confirming that they have appealed the ruling.
The club stated in the announcement:
"The club firmly believes that the ruling contains clear and substantial errors in various aspects, including law, principles, and facts, and therefore its conclusions are unreliable."
"The club is not responsible for the charges brought by the Premier League, and there is substantial and irrefutable evidence to support all of our positions in this case."
"We will continue to respect due process. Until all relevant procedures are concluded, we must also refrain from making further comments."
Currently, Manchester City will continue to challenge the ruling through legal procedures, while Guardiola plans to attend Manchester City's Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain at home on October 14.
If it goes ahead, this will be Guardiola's first return to the Etihad Stadium to watch a match since leaving his position as Manchester City manager. For the coach who led Manchester City to 20 trophies, this return will also be seen as a public show of support for the club during its current difficulties.
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