Pep Guardiola has called on the Premier League to finalise a verdict on the 115 financial charges levied against Manchester City as quickly as possible.
City recently wrapped up their fifth Premier League title in six years after a run of 12 wins on the bounce saw them overtake a spirited Arsenal side at the top of the table.
But the club’s success has been tainted by the looming charges against the club for allegedly breaching financial rules between 2009 and 2018.
City are also said to have failed to cooperate with the Premier League’s investigation into their accounts, and, according to The Times, have submitted a legal challenge against the 115 charges.
Speaking to the press ahead of City’s penultimate Premier League game of the season, against high-flying Brighton & Hove Albion, Guardiola revealed his hope that a decision will be made quickly.
“What I would like is if the Premier League and judges could make something as soon as possible,” the Spaniard said. “Then, if we have done something wrong, everybody will know it and, if we are like we believe as a club for many years, [done things] in the right way, then the people will stop talking about it. We would love it tomorrow. This afternoon better than tomorrow.
“Hopefully they are not so busy and the judges can see both sides and decide what is the best, because in the end I know fairly what we won we won on the pitch and we don’t have any doubts.
“Let’s go. Don’t wait two years. Why don’t we do it quicker? In 24 hours, sit down with lawyers present. Let’s have it as soon as possible for the benefit of everyone.”
Guardiola’s pleas were supported by a firm commitment to City’s cause no matter the outcome, with the 52-year-old, who signed a new contract running until 2025, saying: “I will stay next season while there are 110 breaches against us. Don’t worry, we will be there,” he added.