Erling Haaland, Manchester City's star striker, has urged players and fans to maintain a positive spirit and unity amidst the club's ongoing financial crisis. His message comes ahead of a crucial English Premier League match against Liverpool this weekend.

The call for solidarity follows an independent committee's conclusion that Manchester City seriously violated English Premier League financial regulations over 9 seasons, from 2009 to 2018. The team returned to training on 8/10, following a long break for international duty. This marked the first time the full squad had gathered since the verdict was announced.

Haaland gave a thumbs-up to photographers upon arriving at the training ground, while coach Enzo Maresca also appeared with a smile. This positive atmosphere contrasted with the crisis engulfing the Etihad Stadium, as Manchester City faces the risk of unprecedented penalties.

Haaland gave a thumbs-up to reporters upon arriving at Manchester City's training ground on 8/10. Photo: PA

In an interview with Sky Sports, Haaland became the first Manchester City player to speak publicly after the verdict. The Norwegian striker sent a message of unity to fans, particularly those preparing to follow the team to Anfield this weekend.

"I think they will have a great time", Haaland said when asked about Manchester City fans attending the Liverpool match. "We have to be united, always stick together and stay positive. Whatever happens in life, we must always smile."

The 26-year-old striker emphasized that the entire team needs to look forward, focusing on winning rather than letting off-field disruptions influence them. "We must stay optimistic, keep fighting, enjoy the current situation, and try to win the game. Everyone needs to unite and show affection for each other. Let's stand together, enjoy the journey, and smile," he added.

Erling Haaland scored a penalty in the Manchester City vs. Liverpool English Premier League match in Liverpool, England on 8/2. Photo: AP

Haaland's message came before the highly anticipated and tense away match at Anfield on 11/10. This will be Manchester City's first game since the independent committee's findings were announced. Maresca's team will likely face fierce opposition from Liverpool fans.

On social media, a post urged Liverpool fans to gather on Anfield Road to greet the away team's bus, about two hours before the 4:30 PM kick-off on 11/10, London time. Participants were asked to bring flags, banners, flares, and other fan items. Merseyside Police confirmed they would implement appropriate security measures.

Coach Maresca returned to the club on 5/10, but only had the opportunity to speak with most players about the independent committee's findings at the training session on 8/10. The Italy coach reportedly asked his players not to let the crisis affect their attitude and focus, and to disregard external noise to concentrate on upcoming matches. He is expected to address the media about the matter today, 9/10.

According to the independent committee's findings, Manchester City accounted for over 1 billion USD in capital contributions from owner Abu Dhabi United Group as commercial revenue, thereby concealing the true origin of these funds. The conclusion sparked outrage in English football circles, particularly among rival clubs and fans.

Despite this, Haaland demonstrated his commitment to Manchester City. Having joined the team in 2022, the Norwegian striker has had a connection to England since childhood, as his father, Alfie Haaland, once played here.

"I have a lot of affection for this place, and England in general," Haaland shared. "My parents lived here for 10 years, in Nottingham and Leeds. They never lived in Manchester, but my father still came to train at Carrington every day. I spent my first four years in England, my brother lived here for nine years, and my sister for six years. So, this place is very special to my family."

Speaking of Liverpool, the striker born in 2000 stated that clashes between the two teams always hold special significance. He has experienced wins, draws, and losses at Anfield, but believes the upcoming match will still be an anticipated experience.

While Haaland attempts to spread optimism, Manchester City's future remains uncertain. The club risks various forms of punishment, ranging from fines and points deductions to transfer bans, title stripping, and even expulsion from the English Premier League.

Some Manchester City players have regularly consulted with their agents to understand the situation and assess the impact on their futures, particularly if the club faces severe penalties. Manchester City's management is aware of these concerns in the locker room and has spoken directly with the players.

Enzo Raiola, agent for goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, confirmed his client had been reassured by the club. "Manchester City has spoken with Gigio, and everyone is calm. Ahead are important matches against Liverpool and PSG, after which the sports trial process will continue. Gigio has received assurances from Manchester City," Raiola told Radio Napoli Centrale on 6/10.

Meanwhile, rival clubs continue to call for appropriate penalties from the English Premier League. On 7/10, Sunderland coach Regis Le Bris argued that league organizers must act strictly to avoid damaging the league's value. He admitted Sunderland's management had discussed the Manchester City case, although allegations related to events from about 10 years ago complicate a full assessment. However, Le Bris did not offer a specific view on suitable punishment.

On 8/10, Nottingham Forest coach Oliver Glasner also called for a swift resolution to the matter to protect the English Premier League's reputation. He warned that fans might turn away if they lose faith in the league's fairness. Citing his experience managing Crystal Palace, where he had to wait until 10 days before the Conference League started to know which competition the team would participate in, Glasner emphasized that prolonging the process not only destabilizes clubs but also harms the English Premier League's image worldwide, particularly in Europe.

Hong Duy (according to Telegraph)