Evra revealed the real reason for Guardiola’s departure

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra has revealed the real reason behind Pep Guardiola’s exit from Manchester City a season before the end of his contract, citing a financial investigation surrounding the club as the main reason behind the Catalan manager’s sudden decision.

Punishment is coming and Guardiola knows it

Evra confirmed to Stake that an investigation into City’s 115-point breach of the sustainability and financial fair play rules could be behind the departure of Guardiola, who joined the club in 2016.

Evra said: “The structure of the club is stronger than the structure of the coach. But why is Guardiola leaving? Punishment is coming. We’ll see what happens, but if nothing happens, I don’t see the project collapsing.”

The Frenchman added provocatively. “Haaland, Chergi and the players are loyal to the club. I don’t see them leaving. I think they know Enzo Maresca,” referring to the Chelsea manager as a possible replacement.

Guardiola’s decision was preceded by a mass exodus

Guardiola’s departure was not the only major development, as it was preceded by major sackings, with fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura announcing he would not be continuing and sporting director Aitor Begiristain stepping down last summer.

The team saw the departure of prominent stars such as Bernardo Silva, who was linked with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atlético.

A harsh penalty leaves City in danger of relegation

Manchester City face a possible 60-point deduction for financial irregularities between 2009 and 2018, which could see them relegated to Division One.

Although the Premier League does not have the right to outright relegation, the punishment would shake the club’s confidence and require a comprehensive restructuring.

The case is still ongoing and City had previously been hit with a similar fine by UEFA before it was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.