Guardiola Backs FFP Rules, Vows to Stay Even If City Faces Relegation
Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has recently voiced his strong support for financial fair play (FFP) regulations and emphasized that clubs violating these rules should face penalties.
This statement comes amid Manchester City facing over 100 charges for allegedly breaching the Premier League's financial regulations, a claim the club vehemently denies.
Guardiola's support for FFP, a framework designed to curb excessive spending and promote financial stability among football clubs, aligns with his belief in equal playing opportunities and adhering to established rules. He expressed, "They decided to bring a regulation to make football more equal and laws must be respected," demonstrating his firm stance on the importance of regulatory compliance in football.
The City manager's commitment to the club was further underscored when he addressed the potential repercussions of these charges, including the possibility of relegation. Guardiola confirmed that he would not abandon his position, even if Manchester City were demoted to League One, stating, “But absolutely I will not consider my future [if] it depends on being here [Premier League] or being in League One. Absolutely. There is more chance to stay if we are in League One than if we were in the Champions League.”
The speculation of severe sanctions against Manchester City follows the precedent set by Everton, who faced a 10-point deduction for breaching the league's profit and sustainability rules. Guardiola's call for patience in the resolution of City's case echoes his experience with a similar situation in 2020, where the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned a two-year European competition ban initially imposed on the club for breaking UEFA FFP regulations.
Guardiola emphasized the need for due process, urging observers to wait for the final judgment. He highlighted the premature nature of queries regarding his future at the club, emphasizing, "You are questioning like we have been punished. And in the moment we are innocent until guilt is proved."
In May 2022, Guardiola had a candid discussion with City's leadership about the allegations, asserting his intention to leave if he discovered any deception. He draws a clear distinction between City's situation and Everton's, noting the differing nature of the accusations. The primary allegation against City involves inflating sponsorship deals, a claim Guardiola and the club are prepared to defend vigorously.
As Manchester City prepares to face Liverpool in a crucial Premier League match, Guardiola also addressed the concerns of Liverpool's manager, Jürgen Klopp, regarding the scheduling of games post-international break. Expressing empathy, Guardiola acknowledged Klopp's perspective, underscoring his understanding of the challenges faced by fellow managers in the league.
