Jamie Carragher: Man City success amid 115 charges an EMBARRASSMENT

Manchester City are on the brink of wrapping up their fourth Premier League title in a row and their sixth in seven seasons under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola. 

Only Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool back in 2020 have come between the Spaniard and the league title in that time frame, but the Reds have fallen away this season as the campaign draws to a close, leaving only Arsenal as the closest contenders for the top prize. 

However, City’s win midweek against Tottenham gave Gunners fans the chance to experience what their Liverpool counterparts have been going through over the few years - the feeling of losing out to Man City in a title race. 

It is overwhelmingly likely that City carry off the title this weekend with only West Ham standing between Guardiola and his record-breaking feat. 

Nonetheless, the trophy parade has been conducted against the backdrop of Manchester City’s 115 charges for alleged financial wrongdoing from the period covering 2009 to 2018. 

That encompasses Guardiola’s time at the club - which began in 2016 - meaning City’s triumphs will forever have an asterisk beside them until such time they are cleared of the allegations. 

According to Jamie Carragher, the former Liverpool defender who won the Champions League with the Reds in 2005, says City’s status as top dogs is an ‘embarrassment’ to the Premier League while the shadow of suspicion looms over the club and describes their success during the aforementioned period as a ‘public relations disaster’. 

Carragher: City can't escape allegations

“Arsenal, just like Liverpool, also had to overcome another disadvantage in pursuit of top spot which cannot be ignored, no matter how much Guardiola, City and the Premier League wish to sweep it under the carpet,” the Sky Sports pundit wrote in his Telegraph column.

“The foundations at the Emirates and Anfield were laid after a slow and steady rebuild with the clubs diligently abiding by the profit and sustainability rules designed to make it a fair race. City, as we know, remain under investigation for fast-tracking their way to the summit and have 115 charges pending related to the years 2009-2018. 

“The club takes much displeasure in this being referenced, especially when they are the threshold of more success. They know the time taken to deal with this matter is an embarrassment for them and the Premier League. 

“The charge sheet is so huge, it has created a legal minefield with the club disputing each allegation. 

“I would love to know how City’s owners, or those advising them, feel about the issue dragging on while the team prepares to win its fourth consecutive Premier League on the back of last year’s Treble. They must appreciate it is a public relations disaster. 

“Guardiola should be celebrated for his genius by neutrals as well as City fans. But whether he and his club likes it or not, City will never escape the shadow of those allegations until they are dealt with, the years of legal wrangling still preventing the club from clearing its name.”