Brief
Pochettino laments Manchester City’s alleged financial rule breaches
Pochettino, now coach of the US men’s team, said the findings confirm a “period of deception” in football and warned of lasting damage.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed sadness after an independent panel found Manchester City guilty of 114 of 115 alleged breaches of Premier League financial rules. The Argentine, who now coaches the US men’s national team, said the verdict confirms a “period of deception” in the sport and warned that any punishment would be irreversible.
In a statement to reporters on Monday, Pochettino said, “Whatever punishment (they choose), it’s impossible to turn back time. It’s done a lot of damage.” He added that “at the end of the day many clubs followed the rules and some didn’t … If it’s true all of the 114 rules that were broken, we’ve lived through a period of deception.”
City, which denies any wrongdoing, could face fines, points deductions or even relegation. The club’s chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, has repeatedly denied the allegations and said the club will appeal the verdict.
Pochettino had earlier suggested that Chelsea be stripped of their 2016‑17 Premier League title and awarded to Tottenham, citing the Stamford Bridge club’s record fine for rule breaches. He also criticised Tottenham’s lack of transfer activity during his tenure, noting the club had gone 18 months without a transfer.
Key facts
- Manchester City found guilty of 114 of 115 financial rule breaches (independent.co.uk)
- Pochettino said the findings confirm a period of deception (independent.co.uk)
- City could face fines, points deductions or relegation (independent.co.uk)
- City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak denies wrongdoing and will appeal (independent.co.uk)
- Pochettino suggested Chelsea be stripped of 2016‑17 title (independent.co.uk)
Background
The verdict follows an independent tribunal that examined 115 alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations. City’s chairman has maintained the club’s innocence and plans to appeal, while the club’s future participation in the Premier League and Champions League remains uncertain.
Why it matters
The verdict could lead to significant sanctions that would affect Manchester City’s standing in domestic and European competitions and impact player contracts.
What happens next
City plans to appeal the decision and prepare for potential sanctions, while the Premier League will decide on penalties.
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Pochettino condemns ‘period of deception’ if Man City breached Premier League rules”
