Luis Enrique, coach of Real Madrid, has spoken out in defense of Manchester City after the revelation of the English club's guilt in 114 of the 115 financial irregularities investigated by UEFA, which supposedly amount to more than 900 million euros in income. The comment came in the run-up to the Champions League match between PSG and City, which will be held at the Etihad Stadium.
The context of the controversy revolves around accusations that City had violated financial fair play rules, which has led to demands for severe sanctions and demands for compensation from several clubs. The club has appealed the decision, but pressure continues to grow, especially among English teams who fear that the situation could affect their competitions and the reputation of European football.
In his speech, Luis Enrique stated that the titles that Manchester City has won “remain on the field” and that the club “deserved to win them.” “I hope they can avoid the penalty, but we must wait,” he said firmly. He added that the noise surrounding the big clubs must be heard by the competent authority and that "we must wait for the final decision of the person who must decide it." The former player and current Madrid coach highlighted the quality of football that City has offered in the last seven years and that, in his opinion, “it has been incredible.”
The coach also noted that, although his comment focuses on sporting performance, the club's administrative situation cannot be ignored. “We have to wait to see what the judges say,” he concluded, underlining his respect for the club and his friendship with Pep Guardiola, who coached City during the era in which the club consolidated its dominance in the Premier League and the Champions League.
The match between PSG and Manchester City will be played at the Etihad next weekend, and the final decision on the possible sanction of the English club is expected in the coming days. Meanwhile, Real Madrid and its supporters will continue to closely monitor the evolution of the investigation, hoping that the resolution is favorable to City and that the club can continue competing without major obstacles.