Erling Haaland has called for unity at Manchester City following the club’s reported guilty verdict on 115 charges relating to breaches of Premier League financial rules.
City lodged an appeal last week and continue to deny wrongdoing. Potential sanctions include points deductions, expulsion from the Premier League and the removal of titles won during the period from 2009-10 to 2017-18. Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of Sunday’s visit to Liverpool, Haaland urged supporters and players to remain positive and concentrate on results.
“We have to stick together, we have to stay with each other and we have to stay positive.” The Norway striker added: “And no matter what happens in life, we always have to have a smile. So we have to stay positive, look ahead and then try to win football games and then try to enjoy the situation and the game. We have to stick together and we have to spread the love to each other. So, stick together and enjoy the ride and smile.”
Haaland was among the players who returned to City’s training ground on Thursday after the extended international break. City lead the Premier League after five matches, two points ahead of second-placed Arsenal. Head coach Enzo Maresca is scheduled to speak to the media on Friday morning for the first time since the verdict.