EPL: Man City Players Focused Despite Guilty Verdict, Says Maresca
Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca says his players remain fully focused on football despite the controversy surrounding the club following the Premier League’s verdict on its 115 charges.
City’s international players returned to training on Thursday, nine days after the Premier League published its findings, which stated that the club had used “sham” contracts to disguise secret funding of more than £830m.
Maresca had been expected to address his squad following the verdict, which was announced while many of the players were away on international duty. The City boss urged his players not to allow the situation to affect their attitude or focus as the Premier League campaign resumes.
As reported by BBC Sports on Thursday, Maresca was quoted as saying, “The feeling is fantastic, to be honest,” Maresca said when asked about the mood in his squad ahead of Sunday’s trip to Liverpool.
“The players are excited for the next two games. But especially they are excited because in this moment we are top of the league. The players are just focused on that.
“They know what we can control is the football side – they are not worried at all about different things.
“They know their profession and they know that the noise is there, but they don’t care too much about the noise. They are just focused in this moment on how we can beat Liverpool and how, together with the fans, we can try to win in Anfield.”
Maresca added that he felt “calm” and said the players have complete trust in the club.
Manchester City have launched an appeal against the findings and have consistently maintained their innocence.
Striker Erling Haaland also called for unity among the players, staff and supporters as City prepare for the high-profile clash at Anfield.
“I care a lot about this place,” Haaland told Sky Sports. “I spent my first four years here, it’s a special place for us. I care a lot about City and the fans. I am a fan myself. I feel with them.
“The fans will have a good time on Sunday – we have to stick together. We have to stay with each other and stay positive. No matter what happens in life, we always have to smile. Stay positive, look ahead, and try to win football games and enjoy the situation.
“We have to stick together and spread the love to each other. Enjoy the ride and smile.”
City now turn their attention to Liverpool, with Maresca insisting the focus inside the squad remains firmly on the pitch rather than the controversy surrounding the club.
