Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has defended the club’s transfer spending amid their 115 charges of alleged financial rule breaches brought against them by the Premier League.
Guardiola revealed that the club anticipates a resolution to the charges within the next month, which could result in various consequences, ranging from a points deduction to the potential expulsion from the league altogether.
In discussing the club’s recent activity in the transfer market, Guardiola dismissed suggestions that their substantial January spending was a defensive manoeuvre in anticipation of a possible future transfer embargo.
Recall that Manchester City invested approximately £170 million in four new players—Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Nico Gonzalez—during the winter transfer window.
Guardiola contended that the scrutiny of Manchester City’s transfer dealings is often misinterpreted, attributed primarily to the financial resources of their ownership.
He provided a statistical perspective, emphasizing that over the past five years, City have been the lowest net spender among the Premier League’s top six clubs.
Despite the significant investments made this January, he highlighted that they are still trailing behind rivals such as Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Liverpool in terms of net expenditure.
Addressing the common narrative that paints Manchester City as a club that simply throws money at problems, Guardiola stated, “The reason for our spending is that we have successfully sold numerous players in recent seasons. Nonetheless, I acknowledge the ongoing dialogue around this club, which seems to focus solely on our financial capabilities.”
He expressed his anticipation for a forthcoming verdict, noting that in about a month, there would likely be clarity regarding the club’s situation. “Once that happens, I will share my perspective on the events that have unfolded thus far,” he added.
“Ultimately, at the end of the day, every club is free to operate within the guidelines as they see fit.”