Mikel Arteta responds to Man City financial rule breaches verdict
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has stated that his conscience is completely clear following the news that his former club Manchester City have been found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules.
Arteta worked as assistant coach to Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium between 2016 and 2019, overlapping with the period from 2009 to 2018 in which City were accused of violating more than 100 regulations.
A definitive one-word reply
Speaking in a tense press conference at Arsenal’s London Colney training complex, the Spaniard offered a firm, brief response when questioned if his own conscience was clear regarding his time in Manchester.
When asked directly about his conscience during that period, Arteta replied “Yes.” An independent commission found City guilty of the breaches fortnight ago, though the reigning champions have already launched an appeal against the ruling.
Despite his former role as a prominent figure under Guardiola, Arteta largely declined to offer detailed thoughts while legal proceedings remain open.
Waiting for a final resolution
Addressing his position and his inability to speak freely about the matter, Arteta told reporters in his press conference:
“The process has been going for various years. That process is still not finished. So, it is very difficult to express how I feel, because it is not resolved.”
He added that he would wait for the case to conclude before opening up entirely on the subject.
Speaking about when he might share his true thoughts, Arteta said:
“When it is resolved I can talk with clarity and tell you exactly how I feel.”
The Gunners boss also refused to confirm whether he has had any private conversations with Guardiola since the verdict was made public, simply stating that he preferred not to answer those questions.
Focus remains firmly on the pitch
While the off-field situation continues to cast a dark shadow over English football, Arteta insisted his full confidence in the Premier League remains entirely intact.
When pressed on whether the English top flight was still the finest league in world football despite the ongoing controversy, he responded with a simple “One hundred per cent.”
Arsenal are currently attempting to retain their league crown, with City having won all five of their opening matches this campaign to set up another fierce title race.
Asked whether City’s punishment could hand his side an added advantage, Arteta made it clear that he refuses to focus on matters outside his control.
He explained that his squad only concentrates on their own performances and goals, pointing out that external events are entirely out of their hands.
What’s next for Arsenal
Arteta, who recently committed his future to the North London club by signing a new four-year contract through to 2030, is preparing his team for a domestic return.
Arsenal host Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, looking to recover from a disappointing 3-0 loss against Brighton prior to the international break.
