Glasner calls for swift resolution of Manchester City appeal

Nottingham Forest head coach Oliver Glasner has called for a swift conclusion to Manchester City’s financial-rules case, warning that uncertainty risks damaging confidence in the Premier League. The Guardian reported on Thursday that Glasner believes the effects extend beyond England and that protecting supporters’ trust must be a priority as the appeal process continues.

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City are challenging an independent commission’s findings that they breached financial rules over a nine-year period. According to the Guardian, the club formally appealed last Thursday and maintains its innocence. City’s statement disputed the commission’s reasoning on legal and factual grounds. The appeal remains unresolved, and possible sporting penalties should not be treated as confirmed punishments.

Glasner linked his request for speed to his experience at Crystal Palace, whose European competition place remained uncertain during proceedings over UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules. He said repeated delays complicated that situation. His comments combined a willingness to await the final verdict with concern that a drawn-out process could weaken the league’s credibility.

At City, head coach Enzo Maresca described a positive mood among the squad as international players returned to training on Thursday. BBC Sport reported that the verdict had emerged while most players were away with their national teams. The broadcaster understood that Maresca had asked them to maintain their attitude and concentration despite the dispute surrounding the club.

Maresca said his players were concentrating on football and the things within their control, rather than the wider controversy. He also said he felt calm and that the squad trusted the club. BBC Sport reported that striker Erling Haaland, speaking to Sky Sports, urged unity among players and supporters and stressed his attachment to City and its fans.

Other managers were more guarded in their public responses. According to BBC Sport, Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle said judging another club was not his responsibility and left the process to the authorities. Coventry manager Frank Lampard, who previously played for City, said he lacked inside knowledge of the case and declined to suggest a punishment while the appeal was ongoing.