Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is convinced that other Premier League clubs are eager to see the English champions face consequences for 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations.
The long-awaited hearing into these charges, brought by the Premier League in February 2023, is set to commence on Monday.
If found guilty of some or all of the charges, City could face severe penalties, including a substantial points deduction or even expulsion from the league.
Javier Tebas, president of Spain’s La Liga and a vocal critic of Manchester City’s financial practices, revealed in Spanish media that he has spoken with several Premier League clubs advocating for sanctions against City.
“That the Premier League teams want us to be sanctioned, that is for sure,” said Guardiola when asked about Tebas’ comments.
“I know what people are looking for, I know what they are expecting – I know it because I have read it for many years – but I’ve said everyone is innocent until guilt is proven.
“That’s why I say to Mr. Tebas and the Premier League teams wait for the independent panel.
“Justice is there in modern democratic countries, so wait for the decision. It’s not much more complicated than that.
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“We believe that we have not done anything wrong, so we go to an independent panel and we are going to wait.”
Manchester City are facing allegations of 80 breaches of financial rules from 2009 to 2018, as well as 35 additional charges related to non-cooperation with a Premier League investigation.
The club is accused of failing to provide accurate financial information, including details about sponsorship revenue and salaries for managers and players.
City have strongly denied any wrongdoing.
Since their 2008 takeover by Sheikh Mansour, a member of the UAE royal family, Manchester City have won eight of the last 13 Premier League titles, including a record four consecutive league titles in the past four seasons.