Pep Guardiola is expected to return to the Etihad Stadium on 14 October to watch Manchester City face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and publicly support his former club, according to The Mirror.
The former Manchester City manager has reportedly told club executives that he wants to “stand with his people” as the club deals with the fallout from a Premier League financial case.
Manchester City were ruled by an independent Premier League commission to have breached the competition’s financial regulations between 2009 and 2018. The club denies the allegations and has appealed against the ruling.
Guardiola left his position as Manchester City manager after last season and is currently taking time away from football in Barcelona. He managed the club from 2016 to 2024, winning 20 trophies.
Some of those successes came during the period covered by the investigation, meaning his achievements could also be affected by the outcome of the case.
Guardiola was in charge throughout the four-year investigation and was repeatedly asked about the allegations. He consistently said club executives had assured him that there had been no irregularities.
The Spaniard used social media earlier this week to reaffirm his support for Manchester City.
“I want every Manchester City fan around the world to know that I have always been here, and now more than ever, I support you,” Guardiola wrote.
“I have always supported, and will always support my club, my owners, my chairman, Ferran Soriano (Manchester City CEO), the players, the staff, Enzo Maresca, and you, the unique fans. Let me be clear – we will get through this difficult period together. I love you all.”
Manchester City confirmed on Friday that they had formally appealed against the commission’s decision.
The club said: “The club firmly believes that the ruling contains clear and substantial errors in various aspects, including law, principles, and facts, and therefore its conclusions are unreliable.”
It added: “The club is not responsible for the charges brought by the Premier League, and there is substantial and irrefutable evidence to support all of our positions in this case.”
Manchester City also said: “We will continue to respect due process. Until all relevant procedures are concluded, we must also refrain from making further comments.”
The club will continue to contest the ruling through the legal process, while Guardiola is planning to attend the Champions League meeting with Paris Saint-Germain at home on 14 October.
If he is present, it will be Guardiola’s first return to the Etihad Stadium to watch Manchester City since leaving the manager’s job. His appearance would also represent a public expression of support for the club during a difficult period.