Arsene Wenger
Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger has shown support for Manchester City as they contend with 115 financial charges brought against them. These charges were imposed in February 2023, following a four-year investigation, and accuse the Premier League champions of breaching financial regulations on 115 occasions from 2009 to 2018. As the hearing continues, with outcomes anticipated later this season, Manchester City could face significant penalties if found guilty, though they maintain their innocence.
Arsene Wenger, currently serving as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, expressed his views on beIN Sports. He emphasized the need to reform the Premier League’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, regardless of the verdict concerning City’s charges. Wenger also addressed the intense scrutiny that City is facing, indicating that a regulatory overhaul is essential.
Arsene Wenger said, “I just think, 115 different charges against a football club today looks like we are in an international administration. Financial Fair Play rules have to be changed and made more simple. They [City owners] came in and they had not faced any Financial Fair Play nor have Chelsea.”
In light of an independent panel’s recent decision declaring part of the FFP framework unlawful, Pep Guardiola spoke about his responsibility to defend his club amidst speculation regarding possible penalties for City.
Pep Guardiola said, “I am sorry to say that I always want to defend my club – especially in these modern days.”
