Pep Guardiola’s squad endured a devastating defeat to Real Madrid on penalties during the quarter-finals, crushing their aspirations of clinching a historic double treble. However, City’s recent achievements have come under intense scrutiny due to facing a staggering 115 alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play regulations, spanning from 2009 to 2018. Despite vehemently refuting the accusations, City’s rivals and critics seize every opportunity to raise the contentious issue.

Former Premier League player Stan Collymore has joined the chorus of dissent following City’s Champions League exit. On social media, Collymore juxtaposed images of European Cup triumphs from clubs like Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Liverpool, and Celtic, accompanied by a scathing caption that directly questioned City’s integrity.

As an ardent Aston Villa supporter, Collymore wrote: “Don’t forget kids, you’re only a big club when you’ve won the European Cup, and you’re only a really big club when you’ve done it without cheating. Innit fam. Brrraaap braaap.”

Collymore previously advocated for accountability and significant repercussions if City are found guilty of violating FFP regulations. He suggested that revoking titles would act as a deterrent, ensuring clubs adhere to financial guidelines and underscoring the importance of maintaining the sport’s integrity.

In an interview with Caught Offside, he remarked: “The sad thing is, if found guilty after the investigation has concluded, it’s very likely the Citizens will face no real consequences. If the regulatory bodies want to take a real stand, they should start stripping titles because if they were to do that, any club, not just Man City, who are found guilty of breaking FFP rules, would have done so for absolutely nothing. And there is nothing more embarrassing in sport than having your awards deemed null and void.”

Following the shattering of their treble aspirations, City will aim to secure a spot in the FA Cup final by overcoming Chelsea on Saturday at Wembley Stadium.

Don’t forget kids, you’re only a big club when you’ve won the European Cup , and you’re only a really big club when you’ve done it without cheating.

Innit fam. Brrraaap braaap. pic.twitter.com/3qhtxG4Hmf

— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) April 17, 2024

Manchester City performance and stats

Manchester City is currently 1st in the Champions League with 18 points.

In the last 9 games, it has won 8 times and drawn once. In its last match, Manchester City drawn 3-3 against Real Madrid.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 18 goals and conceding 7.​