Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has dismissed speculation that the club’s £224 million January spending spree was a precautionary measure ahead of a possible transfer embargo.
Speaking ahead of City’s FA Cup fourth-round clash with Leyton Orient, Guardiola confirmed that a verdict on the club’s 115 financial rule breaches is expected within a month.
City’s January Signings & Financial Fair Play Allegations
City made significant moves in the winter transfer window, bringing in Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Juma Bah. However, Guardiola insisted their spending was in line with the club’s financial strategy and had nothing to do with the independent hearing into their alleged rule breaches.
“I do not agree [with the suggestion that spending was to mitigate a transfer ban]. In the last five years, we are the lowest net spenders among the top six clubs,” Guardiola stated.
“Even after this window, we are behind Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham, and even Liverpool.”
Potential Punishments If Found Guilty
The Premier League’s charges, filed in 2023, span from 2009 to the 2022-23 season. If City are found guilty, they could face:
❌ Huge fines
❌ Points deductions
❌ Transfer bans
❌ Stripping of titles
❌ Relegation from the Premier League
City have denied all wrongdoing, maintaining that they have followed financial regulations.
Verdict Expected in One Month
Guardiola acknowledged that speculation will continue until a formal ruling is made, stating:
“People will always say City is just about money. But in one month, we will have a verdict, and then we will see.”
With a crucial decision looming, all eyes will be on whether City escape punishment or face unprecedented sanctions that could reshape the club’s future.