Mauricio Pochettino, current U.S. national team coach and former manager of Tottenham, Southampton and Chelsea, has strongly criticized Manchester City following the club's conviction on financial rule violations.
Manchester City was found guilty of 114 of 115 breaches of Premier League financial regulations by an independent commission. The club has disputed the findings and is expected to pursue an appeal. A sanction has not yet been determined.
Pochettino stated that regardless of the penalty imposed, the damage already inflicted on English football cannot be reversed. "Without regard to what punishment they choose, it is impossible to return time. Much damage has been done. Many clubs respected the rules, and some did not. Deduction of points? Financial fine? It is very difficult," Pochettino said.
The Argentine manager drew a direct comparison to his experience at Tottenham, where financial constraints limited the club's transfer activity. He noted that during one period, Tottenham did not sign a single player for 18 months, partly due to financial restrictions connected to the construction of a new stadium and Premier League regulations the club was required to follow.
Pochettino emphasized the disparity in competitive conditions created by the alleged violations. While some clubs adhered to financial rules, others did not, creating an unequal playing field. He characterized the situation as "a huge sadness for football," underscoring his view that the competitive integrity of the sport has been compromised.