Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has disclosed that the club anticipates the verdict on their 115 charges of alleged Premier League financial rule breaches within the next month. The hearing, which took place before an independent commission between September and December, could result in severe penalties if City are found guilty, including significant points deductions or even relegation.

Guardiola, who recently extended his contract with City until 2027, emphasized that the club has always operated within the rules and dismissed any suggestions of wrongdoing. "In one month, I think there will be a verdict and a sentence," Guardiola stated. "After that, we will see my opinion of what happened so far."

Despite the looming verdict, City have been active in the transfer market, making a record £180m investment during the winter window. The club secured the signings of four new players, including Uzbekistan defender Abdoukodir Khusanov from Lens for £33.6m, Brazilian teenager Vitor Reis from Palmeiras for £29.6m, Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt for £63m, and Spanish midfielder Nico Gonzales from Porto for £50m.

Guardiola defended the club's spending, highlighting that City have made a profit over the past three seasons, partly due to the sales of players like Cole Palmer and Liam Delap. "My words will not convince people," Guardiola admitted. "I know with this club it is always 'just about the money.' But in the past five years, we are the last among the top six for net spend."

As City await the verdict, the football world watches closely, with the potential outcomes having significant implications for the club's future in the Premier League.