Haaland Breaks Silence After Man City Guilty Verdict: 'Stick Together'

Erling Haaland has issued his first public statement following Manchester City's guilty verdict on 115 charges of financial breaches, urging supporters and the club to "stick together" ^[1]. The Premier League found City guilty of serious violations of financial rules spanning nine seasons, from 2009/10 to 2017/18, as well as failing to cooperate with the probe ^[2].

City has lodged an appeal against the decision, maintaining their innocence and stating that the ruling contains "clear material errors" [1, 2]. Sanctions could range from points deductions to expulsion from the Premier League or even being stripped of titles won during the period ^[1].

Returning to training ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash against Liverpool at Anfield, Haaland emphasised the need for unity. He told Sky Sports that the team must "stay with each other and we have to stay positive" ^[1]. The Norway international, who joined City in June 2022, added that regardless of life's challenges, they must "always have a smile".

Haaland also expressed his belief that travelling City fans will have a good time at Anfield, despite the recent news ^[2]. He highlighted his deep connection to the UK and the club, where he spent his early childhood years and whose training grounds his father frequented.

He further stated, "We have to stick together and we have to spread the love to each other. So, stick together and enjoy the ride and smile" ^[1]. City currently sit atop the Premier League table after five games, two points clear of Arsenal. Head coach Enzo Maresca was pictured smiling and giving a thumbs-up at training, and is expected to address the media on Friday. The story was first reported by Metro and Daily Star.