Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique expressed support for Manchester City, asserting that the English club deserves to retain the trophies they won on the field despite recent disciplinary findings. The comments came amid ongoing controversy following an independent commission’s ruling that found Manchester City guilty of breaching Premier League financial regulations on over 100 occasions between 2009 and 2018.
The club is facing potentially severe sanctions, including relegation from the top tier of English football, as well as speculation that titles secured during the period in question could be revoked. Manchester City has denied any wrongdoing and has lodged an appeal against the verdict.
Enrique, who is close to former Barcelona colleague and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, praised City’s on-field achievements, stating that the trophies earned during their competitions reflect their performance and should be honored. “I think what they've done on the pitch has been incredible over the last few years, and I think they certainly deserve to win on the pitch all the trophies that they have won,” Enrique said. He also expressed hope that the team would avoid harsh penalties.
The 56-year-old Spaniard acknowledged Manchester City’s style of play under both Guardiola and current manager Xisco Maresca, highlighting their attacking approach similar to that of his own teams. Under Maresca’s leadership, City began the current season strongly, winning their first eight matches across all competitions prior to their Champions League fixture against PSG scheduled for October 14.
Enrique downplayed the significance of the upcoming Champions League match at the Etihad Stadium as a definitive test, noting that team dynamics can change significantly over several months. “I always think that when you can really see a team's level is five or six months down the line. Things are so different. Many teams change,” he said.
