The international players returned to the club’s training ground nine days after an independent report found Manchester City guilty of the majority of 115 charges brought against the organization by the Premier League, including the use of undisclosed funding channels. Maresca directly addressed the playing staff upon their return from international duty, instructing them to isolate themselves from external scrutiny and maintain total focus on upcoming fixtures, beginning with a high-profile clash against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, October 11.
Blocking Out the External Noise
According to details shared with DAZN, Maresca emphasized that his squad recognizes the limits of their control and remains entirely unperturbed by boardroom developments while an appeal is prepared. “The players are excited for the next two games. But especially they are excited because in this moment we are top of the league. The players are just focused on that,” Maresca explained. He added that while the off-field scrutiny is palpable, the dressing room remains calm and trusts the institution completely.
Striker Erling Haaland reinforced his manager’s public stance, expressing solidarity with both the supporters and the club he joined four years ago. Speaking to Sky Sports, Haaland urged fans and teammates to stick together and maintain a positive outlook despite the unfolding institutional crisis.
Wider Reaction Across the Premier League
As the Premier League resumes following a three-week hiatus, rival clubs have adopted a cautious approach to public commentary. Compulsory pre-match press conferences have seen several managers decline to engage deeply with the verdict. Leeds head coach Daniel Farke and Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle both avoided lengthy statements, while Coventry boss and former City player Frank Lampard suggested that individual player achievements and historic titles remain rooted in personal accomplishment regardless of administrative outcomes.