Manchester City financial ruling sparks debate among former players

Manchester City has been found guilty by an independent commission of breaching Premier League financial rules between the 2009/10 and 2017/18 seasons. The club, which faces potential stripping of titles won during this period, has filed an appeal to refute the verdict.

The ruling has sparked debate among former Manchester United players regarding the 2011/12 season, when City won the title on goal difference. Paul Scholes stated on Instagram that he would want to receive a winner's medal if the titles are revoked, calling himself a ‘greedy bastard’ for wanting the recognition. In contrast, Wayne Rooney expressed discomfort with the idea of accepting a medal that was not originally won on the pitch.

Former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini commented on the scandal, stating that the financial issues are exclusively the club's responsibility and not his own. The investigation included allegations of inaccurate reporting of player and coach payments, as well as the avoidance of approximately £12 million in taxes and contributions.