Manchester City forward Erling Haaland makes his first public remarks since an independent commission found the club guilty over financial breaches of Premier League rules, urging supporters, players and staff to “stick together,” stay positive, and keep smiling. Multiple outlets report his message ahead of City’s return to action and note that City are appealing the decision.
The verdict is widely described as City being found guilty on the vast majority of charges, with figures in coverage varying slightly by outlet (more than 100; 114; 115; and “almost all 115”). City deny wrongdoing and continue to plead innocence, while the potential consequences highlighted across reports include serious sanctions such as points deductions and possible stripping of titles won in the relevant seasons.
Outlets also connect Haaland’s statement to City’s next match, with several noting the team travels to Liverpool at Anfield, where the crowd is expected to be hostile following the ruling. Some reports add that manager Enzo Maresca returns to training amid the fallout, with further media comments expected soon.