Pep Guardiola is set to appear at next week’s Champions League clash with Paris Saint‑Germain, marking his inaugural return to the Etihad since leaving last summer.
His arrival comes as City wrestles with a turbulent spell, having been judged guilty of several Premier League financial breaches after a lengthy probe – an verdict the club is appealing while denying every charge.
Guardiola, who guided City to six league crowns and a Champions League title, voiced full support for the board and fans, insisting he stands behind the squad. In my view, his loyalty underscores the side’s enduring resolve.
Lineker calls on Manchester City to own the verdict and accept any sanction.
Gary Lineker urged Manchester City to own up and accept any sanction for the sake of the sport.
The club faces accusations of violating financial rules from 2009‑10 to 2017‑18. An independent panel found over £830 million of owner funding was used to boost revenues and meet Premier League and UEFA standards through alleged sham deals. City maintains innocence and has lodged an appeal.
“It looks terrible for Manchester City, and terrible for the game too,” the former England captain said.
“When they mention ‘Premier League conspiracy theories’, you can’t help thinking this is the last thing the league would want.”
“I’d like to see Man City simply own it, admit the mistake and, for the good of football, accept whatever punishment follows and move on,” he added.
“That would spare some face right now, though it seems unlikely,” he concluded.
When asked if the three titles won in that era should be stripped, 65‑year‑old Lineker, speaking at a Leaders Week forum at Stamford Bridge, replied, “I wouldn’t be surprised if that happens. But who suffers? The players and the fans.”
Meanwhile, former City stalwart Kyle Walker, who spent eight seasons in Manchester, lifting the Champions League and 12 domestic trophies before departing in 2025, said the squad will forever cherish their achievements, whatever unfolds.
Speaking on talkSPORT, the Burnley right‑back remarked, “It doesn’t look great. The appeal is pending, so commenting on legal matters now would do no justice to anyone involved.”
“Personally, I can say we celebrated countless trophies, nights that no controversy can erase,” he continued.
Walker admitted discussing the issue isn’t easy for ex‑City players.
The 36‑year‑old added, “We prefer to be remembered for winning titles the right way, not for this saga.”
“It’s tough because we worked hard, and the fans who travelled far, even to Istanbul for the treble, deserve those memories too,” he said.
A City statement issued last Friday read: “The club’s firm stance is that the opinion contains clear material errors of law, principle and fact, and is unsafe.”
“The club is innocent of the Premier League’s accusations, and a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence backs every position in this case,” it continued.