Pep Guardiola Responds to Critics Over Manchester City’s Spending

Pep Guardiola has responded to ongoing talks about Manchester City’s big spending on transfers. He says many Premier League clubs spend big amounts, not just his team.

WHAT HAPPENED

In a press conference before Manchester City’s first home game of the new season, Guardiola talked about City’s spending in the transfer window. He said other teams also spend a lot of money and highlighted that spending is done only under strict Financial Fair Play rules. Guardiola stated, “Apparently it’s not just Man City that spend, right,” pointing out that clubs spend because they sell players and balance their finances.

He mentioned that City’s net spend throughout his time has been sensible and within the rules. The club had to spend more this summer because of injuries and other challenges like the recent World Cup. Last season, however, the team spent very little as they had a stable squad that had just won the title. As of now, Manchester City is aiming to stay on top in English football.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Guardiola’s comments come when Premier League clubs have broken spending records this summer. Guardiola is the highest-spending manager in history, having spent over €2 billion during his career at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and City. But he argues that net spending gives a better idea of sustainability than just big numbers. Last season, Manchester City ended third in the Premier League and has started the new season aiming for a fifth title in six years.

City finished the 2024 season without any trophy. Key signings have helped maintain the squad as one of the most valuable in Europe. Top clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United have also invested heavily in catching up with City.

NEXT UP FOR MAN CITY

Manchester City start their home campaign against Tottenham Hotspur, who finished seventeenth last season. City wants a strong start after injuries to many crucial players. The squad expects Rodri, Foden, and Ederson to be fit for the game.

Tottenham has a new manager, Thomas Frank, who is trying to improve their performance and aim for a Champions League spot. After one match, City are level on points with Arsenal and current champions Liverpool. Their next match after Spurs is against Nottingham Forest, who barely avoided relegation last season. Keeping up the pace early will be important for City if they want another title.