What Doesn't Kill Them Makes Them Stronger: Manchester City More United Than Ever

An independent commission reported that the Citizens entered into fictitious contracts between 2009 and 2018 to artificially inflate revenues and disguise costs. The club denies any wrongdoing and has appealed against the ruling. "I think because of all the noise around it, from my point of view, I see the fans, the club, and the team definitely more united," Maresca said at Friday's press conference.

The Italian tactician also noted that while he understands public interest in the case, he warned against jumping to conclusions. "I have no problem with people judging the situation. But in my opinion, it is sensible to wait for the final verdict. I understand that right now, everyone needs to talk about it," AFP quoted Maresca as saying.

The 46-year-old manager, who succeeded Pep Guardiola in the summer, has repeatedly voiced his trust in the club's hierarchy. City responded emphatically in their first fixture following the decision, cruising to a 3-0 victory away at Liverpool in a high-profile Premier League clash. The win maintained their perfect start to the domestic campaign, although they subsequently fell to a 4-2 defeat against reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.