Guardiola Stands by Manchester City After Premier League Financial Verdict

Guardiola, who left the managerial position at the end of last season after a decade in charge, posted his first public response to the verdict on social media on Wednesday, reaffirming his backing for the club's ownership, leadership, players, staff and supporters.

"I want every single Manchester City fan across the world to know I am here; more than ever. I am, always have been, always will be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters.

"Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all," he wrote.

The Premier League said the independent commission found City guilty of serious financial-rule breaches covering the 2009/10 to 2017/18 seasons. Among the findings were that the club had used contracts with commercial partners that did not reflect the true agreements, artificially increasing reported revenue and reducing costs. The commission also found that City had submitted misstated accounts and concealed aspects of its finances from auditors and football regulators.

Manchester City has rejected the findings and said it intends to appeal the decision. The club described itself as "disappointed and surprised" by the commission's conclusions and argued that the ruling contained errors involving law, principle and fact.

Guardiola's message came after a highly successful spell at the Etihad Stadium. He took charge in 2016 and led City to six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the Champions League.

His tenure also included City's historic treble in the 2022/23 season, when the club won the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in the same campaign. Guardiola also guided City to four consecutive Premier League titles during his time at the club.

After Guardiola's departure at the end of the 2025/26 season, former assistant Enzo Maresca took over as Manchester City's head coach.

The financial case remains ongoing, with City expected to pursue its appeal against the commission's findings. Sanctions, if any, are to be determined separately.