Erling Haaland has urged Manchester City players and supporters to remain united and positive following reports that the club had been found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules, as the dispute continues through the appeals process.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of City’s trip to Liverpool on Sunday, the Norwegian striker called on everyone connected with the club to focus on football and support one another despite the uncertainty surrounding the case.
“We have to stick together, we have to stay with each other and we have to stay positive,” Haaland said.
He also encouraged the team and its supporters to maintain a positive outlook, regardless of what happens next.
“No matter what happens in life, we always have to have a smile. So we have to stay positive, look ahead and then try to win football games and then try to enjoy the situation and the game,” he said.
Haaland added that the club needed to continue supporting one another and approach the coming period with a sense of togetherness.
“We have to stick together and we have to spread the love to each other. So, stick together and enjoy the ride and smile,” he said.
The comments come amid renewed attention on Manchester City’s long-running legal battle over alleged breaches of Premier League financial regulations. The club has consistently denied wrongdoing and has challenged the case through the legal process.
Potential sanctions, depending on the outcome of the proceedings, could include points deductions, expulsion from the Premier League or the removal of titles won during the period under investigation, from the 2009-10 to the 2017-18 seasons.
Haaland was among the Manchester City players who returned to the club’s training ground on Thursday following the extended international break. His remarks offered a public message of solidarity as the team prepared for a demanding fixture against Liverpool.
City had made a strong start to the Premier League season, sitting top of the table after five matches and holding a two-point advantage over second-placed Arsenal, according to the original report.
Head coach Enzo Maresca was scheduled to address the media on Friday morning, marking his first press conference since the reported verdict. His comments were expected to draw attention as questions continued over the case and its potential implications for the club.
For now, Haaland’s message was focused on keeping the squad and supporters together, with the immediate task being to maintain their form on the pitch while the legal process continues.
