New Delhi: Jose Mourinho has reignited his rivalry with Pep Guardiola, but this time it’s not about tactics or trophies. Instead, Mourinho has spoken about the 115 charges Manchester City face for alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules. While he maintains respect and affection for Guardiola, Mourinho insists justice should prevail if the allegations prove true.
Mourinho and Guardiola share a storied history. They worked together at Barcelona when Mourinho was an assistant coach and Guardiola was a player. Later, their rivalry intensified during their managerial stints at Real Madrid and Barcelona, and again in Manchester when Mourinho led United while Guardiola managed City.
Yet, Mourinho clarified there is no personal animosity between them, saying, “We love each other. Words are one thing, feelings are another.”
🚨 José Mourinho: “Pep and I worked together, we love each other. It’s not true that I want Man City to be relegated. I want justice”.
“Small teams can be penalised by FFP when they exceed limits by 5 or 10€”.
“I also suffered due to limits at Roma. I don’t think it’s fair”. pic.twitter.com/vRGXDwxxQj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 10, 2024
Despite his affection for Guardiola, Mourinho voiced his frustration with how smaller clubs face harsh penalties for minor financial missteps while “financial sharks” often escape.
Reflecting on his time at Roma, he highlighted the strict FFP constraints he endured. “Small teams can be penalised for exceeding limits by just €5 or €10. It’s not fair,” Mourinho said, calling for consistent and fair enforcement of FFP rules.
The charges against Manchester City have drawn attention, with Mourinho remarking he isn’t rooting for their relegation but simply wants fairness. His statements came after Guardiola indirectly pointed to Mourinho being part of a “huge list” of people who wish for City’s downfall. Mourinho dismissed this, reiterating his focus on justice rather than personal vendettas.
City’s Premier League hearing concluded recently, with a verdict expected by February 2025. Mourinho’s comments highlight the broader debate around financial governance in football. For Mourinho, it’s not about Guardiola or City alone but about ensuring a level playing field for all clubs, big or small.
Mourinho admires Guardiola but insists FFP rules must be applied fairly to all, regardless of club size. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
