Emery says budget inflation is widespread as City saga threatens Guardiola legacy | OneFootball

Unai Emery has claimed Manchester City are not alone in their financial dealings, arguing many clubs have inflated budgets to meet rules, and saying Pep Guardiola's success risks being overshadowed by legal battles.

"It's an issue that was already known. But yes many other clubs have inflated their budgets and now it's coming to light. I feel sorry about it, given how that team played. Under Guardiola, there were times when they were unbeatable." He told The Sun.

His comments follow an independent commission finding City guilty of serious Premier League financial breaches for using 'sham' commercial contracts that inflated revenues by over £900 million from 2009 to 2018. Possible sanctions range from heavy fines and major points deductions to relegation or expulsion.

Asked about any punishment, Emery declined to judge. "That is something for the courts and the authorities to decide."

City have lodged a comprehensive appeal, maintain their innocence and argue the ruling contains material errors of law, principle and fact. They insist irrefutable evidence backs their position and will respect due process, limiting further comment until proceedings conclude.

Guardiola managed City from 2016 until leaving this summer, winning six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup. City top the table with 15 points, three clear of Arsenal.

Source: Goal.com

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