Luis Enrique Backs Manchester City Amid Financial Charges Ahead of Champions League Clash

PSG Coach Luis Enrique Supports Manchester City After Financial Charges Verdict

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has publicly defended Manchester City following their recent guilty verdict over financial breaches. Speaking before their Champions League showdown, Enrique expressed hope that City would avoid severe sanctions, highlighting their on-field success as justification for leniency.

Manchester City's Financial Controversy

Manchester City are currently facing a major legal challenge related to their financial dealings. An independent commission found the club guilty of 114 Premier League regulation breaches between 2009 and 2018. The accusations involve allegedly inflating revenues by around £900 million through sham sponsorship deals.

City deny these claims, insisting the sponsorships were genuine and funded by the Abu Dhabi government rather than the club's owners, the Abu Dhabi United Group. Although the commission delivered a guilty verdict, any final punishment is expected to be announced by year's end.

Enrique Praises City's Sporting Achievements

Before PSG's upcoming match against City, Enrique praised the English side's footballing accomplishments. He recognized the scrutiny City face but emphasized their dominance on the pitch.

"There is a lot of noise around Manchester City and there is often noise around big clubs," Enrique said. "We just have to wait and see what the final decision will be."

"I hope everything works out well for Manchester City because what they have done on the pitch has been incredible in recent years. They definitely deserved all the trophies they've won."

He stressed that the trophies earned during matches should remain separate from off-field controversies. "The trophies you win on the pitch stay on the pitch," he added. "I hope they can avoid the sanction."

Awaiting the Outcome

Enrique declined to delve into the legal details, focusing instead on the pending verdict.

"Now we have to wait to see what the authorities decide or what the judge will say," he commented. "What I discuss with Pep Guardiola about this will remain private."

Although Guardiola has left the club, Enrique credited him for laying strong foundations before current coach Enzo Maresca took over.

The controversy has affected City's atmosphere at home matches. Following the verdict, City beat Liverpool 3-0 in their first Premier League game but were met with boos and jeers from the Anfield crowd.

European Showdown Awaits

As Manchester City prepare to face PSG in the Champions League, they must put aside the domestic distractions and focus on the European stage. A strong performance against the French champions could reinforce their determination to compete for top honors under Maresca.

• Next Match: Manchester City vs Paris Saint-Germain
• Competition: Champions League
• Date & Time: 14 October 2026, 22:00