Pep Guardiola urges UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin to demonstrate ‘courtesy’ when dealing with the financial investigations involving Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola has responded to UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin’s comments regarding Manchester City’s two-year ban from European competitions. Ceferin had stated that UEFA was “right” to impose the ban, but Guardiola hit back, stating that City have the right to defend themselves before being judged. Guardiola emphasized that Ceferin, as a lawyer and president of UEFA, should respect the legal procedure and wait for the outcome.

Despite the off-field controversy, things are looking up for Guardiola’s side on the pitch. They are aiming to become the first team to win four consecutive English top-flight titles and defend both the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup.

City will face Tottenham in a highly anticipated FA Cup clash on Friday, but they will be without Erling Haaland, who is still recovering from a foot problem. Guardiola confirmed that Haaland is close to returning but will not be risked against Spurs.

On a positive note, John Stones is fit for the first time since his injury in December, and Ederson has recovered from a knock. Additionally, Kevin De Bruyne could make his first start since August after an impressive cameo as a substitute. With key players returning from injury, Guardiola stated that he does not feel the need to make any further additions to the squad before the transfer window closes.

In transfer news, City signed Argentine teenager Claudio Echeverri on Thursday, but he has been loaned back to River Plate.