Erling Haaland and Enzo Maresca have both called for unity at Manchester City as attention turns back to matters on the pitch.
City were found guilty of almost all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules last month and have since appealed against the findings.
For Haaland and Maresca, though, the message is to concentrate on the football. As reported by The Athletic, Haaland urged supporters to stick with the team ahead of Sunday’s trip to Liverpool.
“We have to stay with each other, and we have to stay positive,” he said. “We have to stick together, and we have to spread the love to each other. Stick together, enjoy the ride and smile.”
Man City focus turns to Liverpool
Maresca has taken much the same approach. The City boss said he was “very calm” about events away from the pitch and insisted he “trusts completely” in the club. His players, he says, are not overly concerned by the noise either.
It is telling that Haaland, Maresca and former manager Pep Guardiola have all talked about togetherness since the judgment. Guardiola has already told supporters: “We will get through this together.”
Whatever happens with the appeal is now out of the players’ hands. Their job is rather simpler, and City have done it perfectly so far. Maresca’s side head to Anfield with five wins from five and sitting top of the Premier League.
Liverpool away will put that form under serious pressure.
Come Sunday evening, City will have a better idea whether a turbulent fortnight off the pitch has made any difference on it.
