Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday that three-quarters of Premier League clubs want the team relegated over alleged financial rule violations.
Despite the controversy, Guardiola has pledged loyalty to City, even if they are demoted to the fifth tier of English football. The Spanish coach recently signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until 2027.
Guardiola, who has led City to six Premier League titles in seven years, expressed confidence in the club's defense against 115 financial misconduct charges. A verdict from the ongoing hearing is expected by season's end.
The club denies any wrongdoing but faces a possible points deduction if found guilty. Addressing the situation, Guardiola said: "I prefer not to be in that position, but once it’s there I love it because, when you believe in your club, and the people there – I believe what they say to me and the reasons why." He also commented on the alleged opposition from rival clubs: "Seventy-five per cent of the clubs want it because I know what they do behind the scenes and this sort of stuff."
Despite City’s current poor form, marked by four consecutive losses, Guardiola remains defiant. "When you are here for nine years, with a long time at one club, you live all the scenarios, all the situations."
City's losing streak began with a League Cup defeat to Tottenham, followed by Premier League losses to Bournemouth and Brighton, and a Champions League defeat to Sporting Lisbon. Guardiola hopes the return to the Etihad, where City have remained unbeaten in open play for two years, will help the team regain momentum. "We have to start to win games, we know it. We are coming back at home, hopefully, we can perform well and start to take our rhythm," he added.
