Former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino says football would have gone through a “period of deception” if Manchester City are ultimately found guilty of the financial breaches they have been accused of.
An independent commission has reportedly found Manchester City guilty of 114 of the 115 alleged Premier League financial breaches. City have consistently denied wrongdoing and are expected to appeal the findings.
Pochettino, who is now head coach of the United States men's national team, said the developments had left him questioning how financial rules were enforced during his time in the Premier League.
“Where were the controls?” Pochettino asked, pointing to Tottenham’s financial restrictions while the club was building its new stadium.
The Argentine recalled that Tottenham went 18 months without making a signing during his time at the club, as the financial demands of constructing the new stadium limited the club’s ability to spend in the transfer market.
Pochettino said it was difficult for him to understand why some clubs appeared to face strict financial controls while others were allegedly able to operate differently. He said the situation raised questions about sporting fairness.
“If it's true all of the 114 rules that were broken, we've lived through a period of deception,” Pochettino said.
He also questioned whether any eventual punishment could fully address the impact on clubs that competed against Manchester City during the period covered by the allegations.
“Whatever punishment they choose, it's impossible to turn back time,” Pochettino said, adding that the situation had caused significant damage if the breaches were ultimately established.
The reported findings concern alleged breaches dating back several years, and the case is not necessarily concluded. Manchester City have maintained their position that they are not guilty and are expected to challenge the verdict.
Pochettino’s comments come amid wider debate over the consequences of the reported findings, with possible sanctions including financial penalties or sporting measures being discussed. The final outcome will depend on the ongoing legal and disciplinary process.