Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has admitted he would describe the club as “cheats” if he were a Manchester United or Arsenal fan. His comments came as he suggested that dealing with the recent scandal surrounding the club has been more challenging for City’s supporters than for the players or himself.
Maresca guided City to an impressive 3-0 win at Liverpool on Sunday. This was their first match since the club was found guilty of more than 100 charges related to breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules. When asked if the performance was due to the team being brought closer by the verdict, Maresca said, “It probably has been more tough for our fans than for the players or for me as it’s more complicated, because if I am an Arsenal fan or a United fan and you are a City fan, I can tell you: ‘Hey, my friend, you cheat’ – or this kind of thing.”
City has appealed the independent commission’s ruling and maintains its innocence. Captain Rúben Dias echoed his manager's sentiments, stating, “We’re very calm. We trust the club, and we’re very focused on enjoying football.” Maresca also defended the team's celebrations after the Anfield victory, while noting the need to focus on Wednesday’s Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain.