Guardiola says, “Innocent until proven guilty” while defending Manchester City

It was in a press conference on Friday when Pep was asked about the ongoing investigation on City. However, Pep Guardiola did not shy away from defending his club regarding financial irregularities.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The city has been accused and charged with breaking FFP rules in 101 instances.  The allegations go back to 2008 when the Abu Dhabi United Group took over the club. However, the club is still a long way from being punished as they work on defending themselves in order to overturn the charges. Manager Guardiola answered all the tough questions and insisted that the club will stay “innocent until proven guilty”.

WHAT THEY SAID:

During an intense press session, the Spaniard argued, “My thought is that we have already been condemned. Since Monday it is like what happened with UEFA. The club proved that they were completely innocent, why should I think right now, with just charges of suggestions? You have to understand that the 19 teams of the Premier League are accusing us of the opportunity to defend ourselves. You know exactly on what side I am.

“We are lucky we live in a society where everybody is innocent until proven guilty. We didn’t have this opportunity. (People say) we are already guilty. I think we have good lawyers but the Premier League – supported by 19 teams – is going to take good lawyers too. If we are not innocent, we will accept what the judge or Premier League decides, but what happens if it’s the same as UEFA and we are innocent? What happens to restore our damage?”

THE BIGGER PICTURE:

Previously, Guardiola admitted that he would leave the club if the club ever lied to him. Thus, despite Pep signing a new long-term deal at the club, rumors of a new manager have begun.

On the other hand, Spaniard has also blamed the other 19 clubs over allegations against City.

WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER CITY?

No matter what happens, City should be focussed on the on-pitch affairs. Even if the club officials are guilty, it will take years if not months before the verdict is out. The club has made sure to have the best representatives on their side to handle the matter in court.

Anyways, Pep Guardiola’s men will next prepare to host Aston Villa on Sunday while ignoring the off-pitch matters.

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