Football

Manchester City's relentless pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title reached new heights on Sunday as they snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory at Wolves. The champions' last-gasp goal, courtesy of John Stones, sparked controversy but ultimately sent them to the summit of the league standings.Wolves stunned City early on when Jorgen Strand Larsen capitalized on a defensive lapse to give the hosts a surprise lead. However, City's resilience shone through as Josko Gvardiol equalized with a stunning curler before halftime.As the match entered its dying moments, Stones emerged as the unlikely hero. His headed goal from a corner was initially disallowed for offside, but a VAR review overturned the decision, sending Guardiola and his players into raptures.Wolves protested vehemently, claiming that Bernardo Silva had interfered with goalkeeper Jose Sa's view and obstructed his ability to make a save. However, referee Chris Kavanagh stood by his decision after consulting the pitchside monitor.City's victory extended their unbeaten run in the league to 31 games, a new club record. They are now two points clear of Liverpool, who have a chance to reclaim top spot later on Sunday.Guardiola's men have set a blistering pace this season, winning six of their eight league matches. Their only blemish came in a 1-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Community Shield.Despite the absence of Erling Haaland's usual goalscoring exploits, City's attacking prowess was evident throughout the match. They created numerous chances but were often thwarted by Wolves' resolute defense.In the end, it was Stones' late intervention that secured the three points for City. The defender's goal was a testament to the champions' never-say-die attitude and their ability to grind out results even when not at their best.

Benjamin Mendy, the former Manchester City defender, has filed a claim for unpaid wages amounting to £11.5 million ($15 million) against the Premier League champions. Mendy's legal battle stems from his arrest and subsequent charges of rape and sexual assault in 2021.After being charged, Manchester City suspended Mendy's wages, citing his bail conditions and Football Association suspension. However, Mendy claims that a senior City official assured him that he would receive his unpaid wages once he was cleared of the charges.In January 2023, Mendy was found not guilty of six counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. However, the jury could not reach a verdict on another count of rape and one count of attempted rape. A retrial was held, and Mendy was acquitted of both charges.Mendy's financial situation deteriorated rapidly after his wages were withheld. He was forced to sell his Cheshire mansion to cover legal fees, bills, and child support payments. In a witness statement, Mendy revealed that he had to borrow money from teammates Raheem Sterling, Bernardo Silva, and Riyad Mahrez to support his family.Mendy's employment tribunal is expected to last for two days. He argues that he is entitled to the unpaid wages he would have earned if he had not been falsely arrested. Manchester City, on the other hand, maintains that they were not obligated to pay Mendy's wages due to his suspension and inability to perform his duties as a player.Mendy's case highlights the complex legal and financial challenges faced by athletes who are accused of serious crimes. The outcome of the tribunal will have implications for both Mendy and Manchester City, as well as for other clubs and players who may find themselves in similar situations in the future.

Manchester City's legal victory against the Premier League's Associated Party Transaction (APT) Rules has sent shockwaves through the football world. The tribunal's ruling has not only overturned the league's decision to block two of City's sponsorship deals but has also raised serious questions about the fairness and legality of the APT system.The APT rules were designed to prevent clubs from inflating the value of sponsorship deals with connected parties, such as their owners or sponsors. However, the tribunal found that the rules were discriminatory and violated UK competition law. The tribunal also ruled that the Premier League had abused its dominant position by applying the rules unfairly to Manchester City.The Premier League has welcomed the tribunal's findings, but it has also acknowledged that the APT rules need to be revised. The league has said that it will work with clubs to make the necessary changes.The Manchester City case is a significant development in the ongoing debate about the regulation of football finances. The tribunal's ruling has shown that the Premier League's APT rules are not fit for purpose and that the league needs to do more to ensure that its rules are fair and transparent.The tribunal's findings are also likely to have implications for other sports leagues around the world. The APT system is a common feature of sports regulation, and the Manchester City case could set a precedent for challenges to similar rules in other leagues.

Pep Guardiola, the esteemed manager of Manchester City, has vowed to staunchly defend the club against allegations of financial misconduct. His unwavering support stems from his deep-seated trust in the club's Abu Dhabi-based owners and his profound connection with the City faithful.City is currently embroiled in a protracted legal battle, facing 115 charges of breaching Premier League financial regulations. The club vehemently denies any wrongdoing, asserting that they possess irrefutable evidence to exonerate themselves. The outcome of the ongoing hearing, dubbed "sport's trial of the century," is not anticipated until 2025.Despite the looming uncertainty, Guardiola remains resolute in his belief in City's integrity. He has repeatedly fielded uncomfortable questions about the case, but his unwavering stance is rooted in his conviction that the club's owners and management are above reproach."I am an integral part of this club, it's in my DNA," Guardiola declared. "As the manager, I am the primary spokesperson, the one who communicates with the fans. I will always defend my club because I trust them implicitly."Guardiola's unwavering support has resonated deeply with City fans, who have witnessed an unprecedented era of success under his stewardship. Six Premier League titles, the club's maiden Champions League triumph, and a plethora of other trophies have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest managers in the club's history.Beyond the silverware, Guardiola's steadfast defense of City's reputation has further endeared him to the supporters. A group of fans has even commissioned a banner in Catalan, expressing their desire for him to extend his stay at the club."I am eternally grateful for their love and support," Guardiola said. "I have felt it from the moment I arrived here. I love this club, and that will never change."However, when pressed about his future plans, Guardiola remained coy. His current contract expires at the end of the season, but he declined to provide any clarity on whether he would sign an extension."I have stated my position from the outset," he said. "When the time is right, we will discuss it."Aside from the off-field challenges, Guardiola faces a demanding fixture schedule this season. The revamped Champions League format includes two additional group games, and City is also set to participate in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.Guardiola expressed his displeasure with FIFA's request that all teams field their strongest lineups in the Club World Cup. "We will travel with our entire squad," he said. "I will decide who plays. I don't understand how one player can be considered stronger than another."

Manchester City's title hopes suffered a setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Newcastle United, while Arsenal moved level on points with the champions after a dramatic 4-2 win over Leicester City.City's absence of star midfielder Rodri, who is out for the season with a knee injury, was keenly felt as they lacked control and poise in midfield. Despite taking the lead through Josko Gvardiol, Newcastle deservedly equalized through Anthony Gordon's penalty.Arsenal, meanwhile, showed their resilience by coming from behind twice to beat Leicester. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard gave the Gunners a 2-0 lead, but James Justin's brace brought Leicester level. However, Trossard's deflected shot and Kai Havertz's late strike secured the victory for Arsenal.At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea's Cole Palmer made history by becoming the first player to score four goals in the first half of a Premier League match. The 20-year-old forward's stunning display helped Chelsea overcome Brighton's early lead and secure a 4-2 win.West Ham avoided a fourth defeat in five games with a 1-1 draw at Brentford. Bryan Mbeumo's early goal put Brentford ahead, but Tomas Soucek's equalizer rescued a point for the Hammers.Everton ended their winless start to the season with a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. Dwight McNeil scored twice in the second half to give the Toffees their first three points of the campaign.Fulham continued their impressive form with a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest. Raul Jimenez's penalty proved to be the difference as Fulham moved into the top half of the table.

Manchester City legend Shaun Wright-Phillips has hailed Kevin De Bruyne as one of the greatest midfielders to ever grace the Premier League, describing him as having "Satan in his foot." De Bruyne played a pivotal role in City's Premier League triumph in the 2023-24 season, despite missing the first half of the campaign due to injury.Wright-Phillips praised De Bruyne's exceptional ability, saying, "He's the perfect player to have behind you. He's probably one of the greatest midfielders that have played in the Premier League." The Belgian international joined City in 2015 and has since become a key figure, scoring 100 goals and providing numerous assists, including 19 for Erling Haaland in the past two seasons.De Bruyne is also the quickest player to reach 100 Premier League assists, achieving the feat in just 237 matches. Wright-Phillips also spoke highly of Haaland, stating that the Norwegian striker is capable of breaking Lionel Messi's record of 91 goals in a season."We've seen what Haaland is capable of over the last two years," Wright-Phillips said. "He's nearly reached 100 goals within a season, so I don't see why he can't break the record." Haaland enjoyed a remarkable debut season with City, scoring 56 goals in all competitions and winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League treble.In the 2023-24 season, Haaland continued his prolific form, netting 27 goals in 31 Premier League appearances. His impressive performances helped City secure another league title and League Cup double. Wright-Phillips believes that Haaland's focus is not on breaking records but on scoring goals.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has launched a scathing attack on critics of the Premier League champions, accusing them of wanting the club "wiped from the face of the Earth" over alleged breaches of financial rules.City, who have dominated English football since Guardiola's arrival in 2016, face a hefty points deduction or even expulsion from the league if found guilty on some or all of the 115 charges relating to financial regulations. A long-awaited hearing into charges brought by the Premier League in February 2023 finally began at the start of the week.Guardiola has claimed previously that some of the club's rivals hope to see them found guilty and he appears in no doubt they would expect punishment to be severe. He brought up the matter unprompted ahead of Sunday's clash with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium while talking about the tendency of people to overly criticize isolated bad performances."During a season, you can say, 'Oh, it was a bad season'," said Guardiola. "But for performances some people say, 'Oh, it's a disgrace, it is a disaster, it's unacceptable'. No, during 90 minutes it's one bad afternoon when they were better.""But I would say - I'm sorry, I want to defend my club, especially in these modern days when everyone is expecting us not (only) to be relegated, to be disappeared off the face of the Earth, the world - that we have better afternoons than the opponents. That's why we win a lot."City face 80 breaches of financial rules between 2009 and 2018, plus a further 35 of failing to cooperate with a Premier League investigation. The club stand accused of failing to provide accurate financial information, including revenue from sponsors and salary details of managers and players.However, City have vehemently denied any wrongdoing.Guardiola's comments come amid a backdrop of intense scrutiny on City's finances. The club has been accused of using creative accounting to inflate its revenue and reduce its losses in order to comply with UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations.If found guilty, City could face a range of punishments, including a points deduction, a fine, or even expulsion from the Premier League. The club could also be banned from European competition.The outcome of the hearing is likely to have a significant impact on the future of Manchester City. If found guilty, the club could face a lengthy ban from European competition and a significant points deduction in the Premier League. This could seriously damage the club's reputation and its ability to attract top players.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledges the "advantage" his team will have when they face Arsenal on Sunday, given their extra day of rest. However, the champions are concerned about the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne ahead of the crucial clash.City played at home in their Champions League draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, while Arsenal traveled to Italy for their goalless stalemate against Atalanta on Thursday. Guardiola believes the additional 24 hours of recovery could be crucial in the first meeting this season between the two clubs that have finished first and second for the last two seasons.City won both of those title races, leaving Arsenal still waiting for their first English crown since 2004. A victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday would be a significant boost to City's hopes of an unprecedented fifth successive Premier League title.However, City's recovery time advantage might be offset by the potential absence of De Bruyne, who limped off during the draw against Inter. Guardiola said the Belgian midfielder "feels a bit better today" and will be assessed in training on Saturday.Fueled by Erling Haaland's nine goals, City have established themselves as the team to beat once again this season. The champions, who boast a 100 percent record after four league games, sit two points ahead of Arsenal, who have won three and drawn one.Guardiola has a healthy respect for the threat posed by Arsenal, who took the title fight down to the final day last season. "They are a complete team, which is why they've been our biggest rivals in the last two seasons," he said.Although they finished above them, City failed to beat Arsenal last term, losing 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium, drawing 0-0 in Manchester, and suffering a penalty shoot-out defeat in the Community Shield."It's always been a tight game in the last few years," Guardiola said. "Every season they are better and better. Both years have been close, but we have been so strong and we are still strong."City would move five points clear of Arsenal with a first victory over them since April 2023. However, Guardiola insists it is far too early in the season for the result to be regarded as significant."In this early stage of the season, nothing more than the mood over the next few games will be decided. In terms of the table, it's not really important," he said. "It'll be more important when we go to London in the second half of the season."

Manchester City and Arsenal, two English Premier League powerhouses, are set to clash once again on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium, with the coveted title on the line. The Gunners, led by Mikel Arteta, will be determined to dethrone the reigning champions, who have triumphed over them in the past two seasons.Arsenal's defense has been a formidable force this season, conceding only one goal in five matches. However, they will face a stern test against Manchester City's attacking prowess. Former City forward Shaun Wright-Phillips believes that the team's ability to create individual moments of brilliance will be crucial in overcoming Arsenal's defensive resilience."City always play tactically, but they also have players like Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, and Kevin De Bruyne who can produce moments of magic," Wright-Phillips said. "It doesn't have to be a one-two or an interchange; it can be a shot from outside the box."Arsenal's challenge has been compounded by the absence of their captain, Martin Odegaard, who is sidelined with an ankle injury. The Gunners' attacking play has suffered in his absence, as evidenced by their recent goalless draw against Atalanta in the Champions League.Manchester City, on the other hand, also faced a goalless draw in their Champions League match against Inter Milan. However, they dominated the game, creating 22 shots with five on target. Wright-Phillips believes that City's experience and depth will give them an edge over Arsenal."They dealt with a similar situation against Inter Milan and they will be prepared," Wright-Phillips said. "I think they will be able to deal with the Arsenal counterattack and take their chances."The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams looking to exploit each other's weaknesses. Arsenal will need to find a way to break down City's defense without Odegaard, while City will need to be clinical in front of goal.