Pep Guardiola has responded after Manchester City were found guilty on all charges connected to serious breaches of Premier League financial rules across a nine-season period, offering an unambiguous public show of support for the club.

Guardiola, who left Manchester City in the summer, broke his silence with a message aimed directly at supporters. The timing mattered. So did the tone. There was no distancing himself from events, no careful hedging, no attempt to separate the past from the present. Instead, he aligned himself firmly with the club hierarchy, the staff, the players and the fanbase.

In a social media post alongside Manchester City chief executive Ferran Soriano, Guardiola wrote: “I want every single Manchester City fan across the world to know I am here; more than ever.

“I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters.

“Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.”

The guilty verdict marks a major development in one of the most significant cases the Premier League has faced. The findings concern a prolonged period and place renewed focus on what comes next for Manchester City, both in football terms and in terms of possible punishment.

For now, Guardiola’s intervention adds political weight as much as emotional backing. He remains one of the most influential figures associated with Manchester City’s modern rise, and his decision to speak publicly sends a clear message that key figures from that era are closing ranks.

The immediate issue for Manchester City is the fallout from the verdict and the response around the club. Enzo Maresca, named by Guardiola in his statement, now faces the challenge of leading the team through a period that will bring scrutiny, noise and pressure from every angle.