Man City expect Pep Guardiola to leave

Man City expect him to leave before any punishment has come into place

Staff at Manchester City expect Pep Guardiola to leave the club before any possible sanctions for breaching financial rules come into effect. It was confirmed on Monday that the reigning Premier League champions were to be charged for 'numerous breaches' of financial rules, breaking more than 100 of the rules. The charges against the Citizens include allegations against their revenue, details of manager and player remuneration, UEFA regulations, profitability and sustainability and co-operation with Premier League investigations. Monday's announcement follows after a four-and-a-half year investigation into the club and during an interview in 2022, Guardiola said he would walk away from the Etihad Stadium if the club had lied to him, leading to speculation about his future. "I said to them, 'If you lie to me, I am not here. I will be out,'" he said. The Athletic have now reported that there is growing suspicion that the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss won't be around by the time any potential sanctions are imposed. An independent commission will now weigh up the sanctions they will inflict on Man City, which includes the possibility of a points deduction or even relegation from the Premier League. Guardiola was reportedly one of the first to be told of the news before it was made public. Man City's statement on Monday said that they were "surprised" by the allegations against them. They added that they welcome "the review of this matter by an independent Commission" and "look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all." The Spaniard has been incredibly successful during his time in the north West, winning winning 11 trophies, including four Premier League titles across six years. Related links:

• Man City will not be allowed to appeal any FFP punishments to Court of Arbitration for Sport
• Man City release official statement following alleged financial breaches
• Lawyer heading Man City’s alleged rule breaches panel is an Arsenal member