Guardiola denies Man City spent due to transfer ban fears

Pep Guardiola has denied that Manchester City's significant January spending of around £170 million was motivated by concerns over a potential transfer embargo due to alleged financial rule breaches. City brought in players including Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, and Nico Gonzalez, citing injury issues as the primary reason for their recruitment. Guardiola emphasized that, despite their expenditures, Manchester City remains the lowest net spenders among the top six clubs over the last five years, largely due to their successful player sales. The club is awaiting a verdict in the case concerning 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations, with possible sanctions including fines or points deductions. Guardiola stated that he expects a decision within a month and reiterated that every club can spend as they see fit. He expressed frustration at the perception that City's spending is solely about their financial backing, insisting that the club's strategy has been more nuanced.