Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero will be out for perhaps as much as a month, coach Pep Guardiola told a press conference in Marseille on Monday.

City will be without the Argentine on Tuesday against Marseille in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Aguero, who had just returned from injury, suffered a muscle problem in the&nbsp;Premier League draw at West Ham on Saturday.&nbsp;

"We knew he wasn't in the best condition," Guardiola said. "When you are out four or five months for a knee injury you always have the risk when you come back of injuries."

"It will be 10-15 days minimum. If it is longer it will be three weeks to a month. I don't know."

Guardiola said he wants "Sergio to come back when he has fully recovered. We miss him a lot. What he has done for this club is extraordinary, he is a City legend."

Brazilian Gabriel Jesus is also absent, but Guardiola said he did not regret not recruiting a striker in the transfer window.&nbsp;

"We couldn't, the club does what it can, but we lacked income at the end of the season. And then we would need a striker of the level of Gabriel and Sergio, and we don't have the means".&nbsp;

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero will be out for perhaps as much as a month, coach Pep Guardiola told a press conference in Marseille on Monday. City will be without the Argentine on Tuesday against Marseille in the Champions League.

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero will be out for perhaps as much as a month, coach Pep Guardiola told a press conference in Marseille on Monday. City will be without the Argentine on Tuesday against Marseille in the Champions League. Aguero, who had just returned from injury, suffered a muscle problem in the Premier League draw at West Ham on Saturday. "We knew he wasn't in the best condition," Guardiola said. "When you are out four or five months for a knee injury you always have the risk when you come back of injuries." "It will be 10-15 days minimum. If it is longer it will be three weeks to a month. I don't know." Guardiola said he wants "Sergio to come back when he has fully recovered. We miss him a lot. What he has done for this club is extraordinary, he is a City legend." Brazilian Gabriel Jesus is also absent, but Guardiola said he did not regret not recruiting a striker in the transfer window. "We couldn't, the club does what it can, but we lacked income at the end of the season. And then we would need a striker of the level of Gabriel and Sergio, and we don't have the means".

Aguero out for up to a month says Guardiola

Manchester City's squad has been hit a string of injuries and COVID-19. Manager Pep Guardiola has to form a team with remaining players, as per midfielder Ilkay Guendogan.

Manchester City's squad has been hit a string of injuries and COVID-19. Manager Pep Guardiola has to form a team with remaining players, as per midfielder Ilkay Guendogan. Also read: Rashford urges MPs not to 'turn blind eye' to vulnerable children Star players like Kevin De Bruyne, forward Gabriel Jesus and defenders Aymeric Laporte and Nathan Ake all missed Wednesday's 3-1 Champions League win over Porto. During the match, City midfielder Fernandinho was ruled out for up to six weeks after suffering a leg injury late in the game. Also read: Guardiola bemoans gruelling schedule as sluggish Man City see off Porto "I think we're struggling at the moment," Guendogan told BT Sport. "Fernandinho went off in the last minute. We have a few injured players. We have players in different conditions. Even me, I'm not 100% yet because I was out with COVID. "We're all in different moments. It's the challenge this season and it's not going to end for a while. "It's not going to be difficult for Pep to choose the 11 because some players will be tired, they can't play every game, others need to play," Guendogan added. "Obviously, we're glad we have a big squad but not everyone is there yet and not everyone is at 100%." (Inputs from Reuters)

'We're struggling at the moment': Man City midfielder Ilkay Guendogan on injury-plagued squad

Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has withdrawn from Belgium's clash against Iceland in the Nations League that scheduled to play on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/major-soccer-league-higuain-brothers-to-play-for-inter-miami-fc-334472" hreflang="en">Major Soccer League: Higuain brothers to play for Inter Miami FC</a>

He has asked out citing an unspecified injury and returned to his club Manchester City, the Belgian national team said.

The 29-year-old was substituted in the second half during Belgium’s 2-1 Nations League defeat by England at Wembley on Sunday.

“Kevin de Bruyne has returned to his club. He couldn’t be fit enough to play against Iceland,” the Belgian national team said on Twitter.

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UPDATE: <a href="https://twitter.com/DeBruyneKev?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeBruyneKev</a> returned to his club. He couldn’t be fit enough to play against Iceland.
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Manchester City are currently 14th on the Premier League table with one win, loss and draw. They are set to face Arsenal on Saturday.&nbsp;

Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has withdrawn from Belgium's clash against Iceland in the Nations League that scheduled to play on Wednesday. Also read: Major Soccer League: Higuain brothers to play for Inter Miami FC He has asked out citing an unspecified injury and returned to his club Manchester City, the Belgian national team said.

Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has withdrawn from Belgium's clash against Iceland in the Nations League that scheduled to play on Wednesday. Also read: Major Soccer League: Higuain brothers to play for Inter Miami FC He has asked out citing an unspecified injury and returned to his club Manchester City, the Belgian national team said. The 29-year-old was substituted in the second half during Belgium’s 2-1 Nations League defeat by England at Wembley on Sunday. “Kevin de Bruyne has returned to his club. He couldn’t be fit enough to play against Iceland,” the Belgian national team said on Twitter. UPDATE: @DeBruyneKev returned to his club. He couldn’t be fit enough to play against Iceland. — Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) October 12, 2020 × Manchester City are currently 14th on the Premier League table with one win, loss and draw. They are set to face Arsenal on Saturday.

Kevin de Bruyne withdraws from Belgium squad citing unspecified injury

Pep Guardiola admitted it was vital to keep a clean-sheet as League Cup holders Manchester City got back on track with a 3-0 win against Burnley, while Manchester United joined their rivals in the quarter-finals after beating Brighton 3-0 on Wednesday.

Guardiola's side suffered their heaviest home Premier League loss under the Spaniard on Sunday when Leicester handed them a humiliating 5-2 defeat.

A brace from Raheem Sterling at Turf Moor ensured they washed away some of that bitter taste from that defeat and Spanish forward Ferran Torres, a close-season signing from Valencia, added City's third goal with his first for the club.

"It was important we didn't concede and the team was good in general," Guardiola said.

"When you lose a game the most important thing is the next one. Firstly, because if you lose in this competition, you're out.

"We are still far away from our best because we're not training much. We have a lot of players out, six because of Covid and four injuries.

"But step by step when we have all the squad we will get better. We are in the quarter-finals of this competition again so it's good."

City have won the League Cup four times in the last five seasons and they remain on course to retain the trophy.

Guardiola's men would have won by an even bigger scoreline but for a fine display from Burnley keeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne both started in a strong City side that also included Riyad Mahrez and a debut for 18-year-old midfielder Cole Palmer.

Sterling made the breakthrough 10 minutes before the interval with a powerful strike from Benjamin Mendy's cross.

The City forward doubled his tally on 49 minutes, finishing off a good move involving De Bruyne and Torres.

City put the result beyond doubt in the 65th minute when Sterling failed to control a Mahrez pass and the ball ran through for the 20-year-old Torres to slam past Peacock-Farrell.

<h2>- 'Never surprised' -</h2>

At the Amex Stadium, Manchester United inflicted more misery on Brighton four days after beating them 3-2 in a dramatic Premier League game.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side needed a 100th minute Bruno Fernandes penalty to see off Albion on that occasion and conceding an equaliser moments early.

There was less drama this time as United made 10 changes and Brighton nine, with Solskjaer's stand-ins proving far superior.

United, who last won the League Cup in 2017, took the lead in the 44th minute when Scott McTominay headed home from Juan Mata's free-kick.

United doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute, with Donny Van De Beek finding Spanish midfielder Mata, who showed slotted home his 50th goal for the club.

Paul Pogba came off the bench to score seven minutes later when his free-kick curled in via a deflection off Brighton's Joel Veltman.

"A great performance by Juan Mata. He was the one who got on the ball and calmed us down. He was composed. He more or less creates the first goal himself. I am never surprised when he plays like this," Solskjaer said.

"We needed the first 20-25 minutes to get our confidence and get on the ball. We have worked on set pieces. You keep a clean sheet and this is important for a back four."

Dominic Calvert-Lewin hit a hat-trick as Everton thrashed West Ham 4-1, but the win was overshadowed by injuries to the Toffees' Brazilian stars Richarlison and Allan.

Calvert-Lewin put Everton ahead with his sixth goal of the season after 11 minutes after Goodison Park.

Carlo Ancelotti's side, who have won six consecutive matches in all competitions this season, were pegged back by Robert Snodgrass's 46th minute equaliser.

Richarlison restored Everton's lead 10 minutes later before Calvert-Lewin bagged his second treble already this season with goals in the 78th and 84th minute.

Newcastle survived a scare from fourth tier Newport before reaching the last eight with a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win after their 1-1 draw.

Pep Guardiola admitted it was vital to keep a clean-sheet as League Cup holders Manchester City got back on track with a 3-0 win against Burnley, while Manchester United joined their rivals in the quarter-finals after beating Brighton 3-0 on Wednesday.

Pep Guardiola admitted it was vital to keep a clean-sheet as League Cup holders Manchester City got back on track with a 3-0 win against Burnley, while Manchester United joined their rivals in the quarter-finals after beating Brighton 3-0 on Wednesday. Guardiola's side suffered their heaviest home Premier League loss under the Spaniard on Sunday when Leicester handed them a humiliating 5-2 defeat. A brace from Raheem Sterling at Turf Moor ensured they washed away some of that bitter taste from that defeat and Spanish forward Ferran Torres, a close-season signing from Valencia, added City's third goal with his first for the club. "It was important we didn't concede and the team was good in general," Guardiola said. "When you lose a game the most important thing is the next one. Firstly, because if you lose in this competition, you're out. "We are still far away from our best because we're not training much. We have a lot of players out, six because of Covid and four injuries. "But step by step when we have all the squad we will get better. We are in the quarter-finals of this competition again so it's good." City have won the League Cup four times in the last five seasons and they remain on course to retain the trophy. Guardiola's men would have won by an even bigger scoreline but for a fine display from Burnley keeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell. Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne both started in a strong City side that also included Riyad Mahrez and a debut for 18-year-old midfielder Cole Palmer. Sterling made the breakthrough 10 minutes before the interval with a powerful strike from Benjamin Mendy's cross. The City forward doubled his tally on 49 minutes, finishing off a good move involving De Bruyne and Torres. City put the result beyond doubt in the 65th minute when Sterling failed to control a Mahrez pass and the ball ran through for the 20-year-old Torres to slam past Peacock-Farrell. - 'Never surprised' - At the Amex Stadium, Manchester United inflicted more misery on Brighton four days after beating them 3-2 in a dramatic Premier League game. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side needed a 100th minute Bruno Fernandes penalty to see off Albion on that occasion and conceding an equaliser moments early. There was less drama this time as United made 10 changes and Brighton nine, with Solskjaer's stand-ins proving far superior. United, who last won the League Cup in 2017, took the lead in the 44th minute when Scott McTominay headed home from Juan Mata's free-kick. United doubled their advantage in the 73rd minute, with Donny Van De Beek finding Spanish midfielder Mata, who showed slotted home his 50th goal for the club. Paul Pogba came off the bench to score seven minutes later when his free-kick curled in via a deflection off Brighton's Joel Veltman. "A great performance by Juan Mata. He was the one who got on the ball and calmed us down. He was composed. He more or less creates the first goal himself. I am never surprised when he plays like this," Solskjaer said. "We needed the first 20-25 minutes to get our confidence and get on the ball. We have worked on set pieces. You keep a clean sheet and this is important for a back four." Dominic Calvert-Lewin hit a hat-trick as Everton thrashed West Ham 4-1, but the win was overshadowed by injuries to the Toffees' Brazilian stars Richarlison and Allan. Calvert-Lewin put Everton ahead with his sixth goal of the season after 11 minutes after Goodison Park. Carlo Ancelotti's side, who have won six consecutive matches in all competitions this season, were pegged back by Robert Snodgrass's 46th minute equaliser. Richarlison restored Everton's lead 10 minutes later before Calvert-Lewin bagged his second treble already this season with goals in the 78th and 84th minute. Newcastle survived a scare from fourth tier Newport before reaching the last eight with a 5-4 penalty shoot-out win after their 1-1 draw.

Man City, Man Utd ease into League Cup quarter-finals

Manchester City have announced the signing of Ruben Dias. The 23-year-old centre-back joins from Portuguese outfit Benfica, with Nicolas Otamendi moving in the opposite direction. Having undergone a medical in Lisbon prior to completing the deal, Dias arrived in Manchester on Monday.

A product of the Benfica academy, Dias enjoyed individual success at youth level, featuring in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament in 2016 and being named Cosme Damião Revelation of the Year the following season.

He went on to win both the Portuguese title and Super Cup during his three seasons in the first team, while also competing in the Champions League.

With 19 senior international caps already to his name, Dias won the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019 with his native Portugal. He was named man-of-the-match in the final and also featured in the team of the tournament alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Virgil Van Dijk and City teammate Bernardo Silva.

Rúben Dias said: “To have the opportunity to join a club like Manchester City is a fantastic opportunity for me and one I couldn’t turn down. Their success speaks for itself. They have been the dominant team in England over the last few years, playing an attacking brand of football which I feel suits my own game.

“It is really exciting to be part of such a talented squad and to play for a world class manager like Pep Guardiola, who has a proven track record of developing young players like myself. “I believe I can improve here, at a club whose ambitions match my own and I will give everything to be successful and win titles.”

Txiki Begiristain added: “Ruben is a player we have admired for some time and we have been impressed with how he has progressed at Benfica. He has developed into a real leader and as a defender, he has all the attributes we are looking for. He is strong in the air, good in one v one situations and technically, he is very good, so we are confident he can thrive in our system.

“He is young but has gained valuable experience at a big European club in Benfica and we’re really pleased we’ve been able to sign him. He is another talented addition to the squad and someone who is only going to get better working under Pep.”

Manchester City have announced the signing of Ruben Dias. The 23-year-old centre-back joins from Portuguese outfit Benfica, with Nicolas Otamendi moving in the opposite direction.

Manchester City have announced the signing of Ruben Dias. The 23-year-old centre-back joins from Portuguese outfit Benfica, with Nicolas Otamendi moving in the opposite direction. Having undergone a medical in Lisbon prior to completing the deal, Dias arrived in Manchester on Monday. A product of the Benfica academy, Dias enjoyed individual success at youth level, featuring in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament in 2016 and being named Cosme Damião Revelation of the Year the following season. He went on to win both the Portuguese title and Super Cup during his three seasons in the first team, while also competing in the Champions League. With 19 senior international caps already to his name, Dias won the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019 with his native Portugal. He was named man-of-the-match in the final and also featured in the team of the tournament alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Virgil Van Dijk and City teammate Bernardo Silva. Rúben Dias said: “To have the opportunity to join a club like Manchester City is a fantastic opportunity for me and one I couldn’t turn down. Their success speaks for itself. They have been the dominant team in England over the last few years, playing an attacking brand of football which I feel suits my own game. “It is really exciting to be part of such a talented squad and to play for a world class manager like Pep Guardiola, who has a proven track record of developing young players like myself. “I believe I can improve here, at a club whose ambitions match my own and I will give everything to be successful and win titles.” Txiki Begiristain added: “Ruben is a player we have admired for some time and we have been impressed with how he has progressed at Benfica. He has developed into a real leader and as a defender, he has all the attributes we are looking for. He is strong in the air, good in one v one situations and technically, he is very good, so we are confident he can thrive in our system. “He is young but has gained valuable experience at a big European club in Benfica and we’re really pleased we’ve been able to sign him. He is another talented addition to the squad and someone who is only going to get better working under Pep.”

Ruben Dias signs for Manchester City from SL Benfica

Teenage Manchester City striker Liam Delap said being named in the starting lineup for Thursday’s League Cup clash against Bournemouth caught him off guard but that he would be smiling for weeks after marking his senior debut with a goal.

Delap, the son of former Stoke City defender Rory, scored the opener for Pep Guardiola’s side in the 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium, running on to Phil Foden’s through ball and firing past Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers.

“It was a bit of a shock to be put in the starting line up but I took it with a pinch of salt and just worked my hardest,” the 17-year-old told BBC.

“I was buzzing to get the call up and to top it with a goal, I can’t ask for much more.”

“I need to keep working hard in training and look to take every opportunity I get. It will take a few weeks to stop smiling.”

With Sergio Aguero still battling a knee injury, Guardiola said Delap would have more opportunities to impress.

“We have just 13 players fit. With the problems we have up front, he will stay with us. We will use him,” Guardiola said. “At 17, Liam is a different striker to what we have in terms of physicality.

“We see in training how good a finisher he is. Now is the time to be calm and keep working. We are delighted with his performance.”

Teenage Manchester City striker Liam Delap said being named in the starting lineup for Thursday’s League Cup clash against Bournemouth caught him off guard but that he would be smiling for weeks after marking his senior debut with a goal.

Teenage Manchester City striker Liam Delap said being named in the starting lineup for Thursday’s League Cup clash against Bournemouth caught him off guard but that he would be smiling for weeks after marking his senior debut with a goal. Delap, the son of former Stoke City defender Rory, scored the opener for Pep Guardiola’s side in the 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium, running on to Phil Foden’s through ball and firing past Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers. “It was a bit of a shock to be put in the starting line up but I took it with a pinch of salt and just worked my hardest,” the 17-year-old told BBC. “I was buzzing to get the call up and to top it with a goal, I can’t ask for much more.” “I need to keep working hard in training and look to take every opportunity I get. It will take a few weeks to stop smiling.” With Sergio Aguero still battling a knee injury, Guardiola said Delap would have more opportunities to impress. “We have just 13 players fit. With the problems we have up front, he will stay with us. We will use him,” Guardiola said. “At 17, Liam is a different striker to what we have in terms of physicality. “We see in training how good a finisher he is. Now is the time to be calm and keep working. We are delighted with his performance.”

Man City teenager Delap revels in dream debut

Man City boss Pep Guardiola after Monday's opening Premier League win against Wolves said that his squad was stretched to the limit as the club prepare to launch their League Cup defence.

Man City boss Pep Guardiola after Monday's opening Premier League win against Wolves said that his squad was stretched to the limit as the club prepare to launch their League Cup defence. Also read: Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan tests positive for COVID-19 Manchester City on Monday claimed an easy victory against Wolves at Molineux after Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus struck in their Premier League opener. Also read: Premier League: Liverpool's Mane sinks 10-man Chelsea, Son hits four in Spurs rout The team has seen many setbacks before the Premier League match after three of its players including Gundogan have tested positive for coronavirus. They played the match without Joao Cancelo, Bernardo Silva, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Sergio Aguero, Aymeric Laporte and Eric Garcia. Man City, who have won the League Cup for the past three seasons, will start the defence of their trophy against Bournemouth on Thursday and Guardiola knows they cannot afford to lose more players. "All we want is the seven players that are out to come back," he said. "Now we have a competition that we cannot spend the energy that we spent today, before Leicester (on Sunday), so we're going to play mostly academy players and try to keep the energy for the Premier League. "With this lack of preparation and seven players out and not coming back soon, we have to keep the players from Monday as safe as possible. "We will see how many are available, how they recover. We have just three days. We won the Carabao (League) Cup three times in a row and we would like to continue but we don't have the players in this period to play every three days." (Inputs from AFP)

Premier League: After win against Wolves, Guardiola says Man City squad is stretched to its limit

Manchester City's star Ilkay Gundogan has tested positive for coronavirus hours ahead of their first match in the Premier League. The news was shared by Manchester City on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-going-to-win-premier-league-with-manchester-uniteds-centre-back-pairing-gary-neville-328926" hreflang="en">Never going to win Premier League with Manchester United's centre back pairing: Gary Neville</a>

The midfielder is now in self-isolation as the club prepare to play Wolves at Molineux.

"Ilkay is now observing a 10-day period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK government protocol on quarantine," said a City statement.

"Everyone at the club wishes Ilkay a speedy recovery."

Gundogan is the third case of coronavirus in the Manchester City squad. Earlier, Aymeric Laporte and Riyad Mahrez had tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

City missed the opening weekend of the Premier League to give them extra time to recover from a late end to the 2019/20 season due to their involvement in the Champions League.

(Inputs from AFP)

Manchester City's star Ilkay Gundogan has tested positive for coronavirus hours ahead of their first match in the Premier League. The news was shared by Manchester City on Monday.

Manchester City's star Ilkay Gundogan has tested positive for coronavirus hours ahead of their first match in the Premier League. The news was shared by Manchester City on Monday. Also read: Never going to win Premier League with Manchester United's centre back pairing: Gary Neville The midfielder is now in self-isolation as the club prepare to play Wolves at Molineux. "Ilkay is now observing a 10-day period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK government protocol on quarantine," said a City statement. "Everyone at the club wishes Ilkay a speedy recovery." Gundogan is the third case of coronavirus in the Manchester City squad. Earlier, Aymeric Laporte and Riyad Mahrez had tested positive for the virus. City missed the opening weekend of the Premier League to give them extra time to recover from a late end to the 2019/20 season due to their involvement in the Champions League. (Inputs from AFP)

Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan tests positive for COVID-19

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> club Manchester City on Monday confirmed that two players – Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte – have tested positive for COVID-19. Both Mahrez and Laporte were tested positive for the dreaded virus upon arriving back in the United Kingdom from their vacation.

The Man City duo is asympotomatic and are observing a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine.&nbsp;

“Manchester City FC can confirm that Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte have tested positive for Covid-19,” Man City said in a statement on Monday.

“Both players are currently observing a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine. Neither is displaying symptoms of the virus. Everyone at the Club wishes Riyad and Aymeric a speedy recovery ahead of their return to training and the new season,” the statement added.&nbsp;

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Both Mahrez and Laporte took to social media platform to thank the fans for their support and messages. 
Mahrez tweeted in response to messages of support from City fans: "Thank you for all the nice messages, I'm good. Stay safe everyone take care of you."

And Laporte added: "Thanks everyone for your messages, everything is going as well as possible, I am following the protocol for the next few days and I will be back soon, take care of yourself."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/emotional-lionel-messi-confirms-he-will-stay-at-barcelona-325284" hreflang="en">'Emotional' Lionel Messi confirms he will stay at Barcelona</a>

Man City start their 2020-21 Premier League campaign on September 21 against Wolves at the Molineux.

The Blues will be desperate to come back to winning ways after an underwhelming 2019-20 season where the club failed to win any major titles. The Pep Guardiola-managed side has added the likes of Nathan Ake and Ferran Torres to their squad with the addition of Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly likely as well. 
&nbsp;

Premier League club Manchester City on Monday confirmed that two players – Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte – have tested positive for COVID-19. Both Mahrez and Laporte were tested positive for the dreaded virus upon arriving back in the United Kingdom from their vacation.

Premier League club Manchester City on Monday confirmed that two players – Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte – have tested positive for COVID-19. Both Mahrez and Laporte were tested positive for the dreaded virus upon arriving back in the United Kingdom from their vacation. The Man City duo is asympotomatic and are observing a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine. “Manchester City FC can confirm that Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte have tested positive for Covid-19,” Man City said in a statement on Monday. “Both players are currently observing a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine. Neither is displaying symptoms of the virus. Everyone at the Club wishes Riyad and Aymeric a speedy recovery ahead of their return to training and the new season,” the statement added. ALSO READ: Ansu Fati makes history as Spain thump Ukraine Both Mahrez and Laporte took to social media platform to thank the fans for their support and messages. Mahrez tweeted in response to messages of support from City fans: "Thank you for all the nice messages, I'm good. Stay safe everyone take care of you." And Laporte added: "Thanks everyone for your messages, everything is going as well as possible, I am following the protocol for the next few days and I will be back soon, take care of yourself." ALSO READ: 'Emotional' Lionel Messi confirms he will stay at Barcelona Man City start their 2020-21 Premier League campaign on September 21 against Wolves at the Molineux. The Blues will be desperate to come back to winning ways after an underwhelming 2019-20 season where the club failed to win any major titles. The Pep Guardiola-managed side has added the likes of Nathan Ake and Ferran Torres to their squad with the addition of Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly likely as well.

Man City's Mahrez, Laporte test positive for COVID-19

Over the years, Lionel Messi has troubled Real Madrid a lot while playing for Barcelona but with things developing quick, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner may not be seen playing for Blaugrana in the future. Arch-rival and captain of Real Madrid, Sergio Ramos has given his take on the entire Messi transfer saga as the Spaniard said Messi has earned the right to decide his future.&nbsp;

However, Ramos clarified that he doesn’t know whether leaving with a conflict with Barcelona is the right way to leave while adding for Spanish football, Barcelona and Real Madrid, he would like Messi to continue his career at Barcelona.&nbsp;

Ramos is of the view that Messi’s presence make La Liga, Barcelona and El Clasicos a better spectacle and added that that he wants to beat the best and Messi is one of the best in the world.

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"He's earned the right to decide his future,” Ramos told reporters in a press-conference, “but I don't know if it's the best way."

He added: “For Spanish football, for Barcelona and for us, we'd like him to stay. Leo makes the Spanish league, his team and the Clasicos better.

"You always like beating the best and he's one of the best in the world."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stay-or-go-messi-in-legal-tangle-with-barcelona-over-leaving-club-323132" hreflang="en">Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club</a>

Messi’s father Jorge met Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu on Wednesday with another meeting scheduled for Thursday as both the camps look for a mutual agreement in relation to Argentine’s future. While Barcelona continue to remain firm on their stance that they want Messi to stay, his father is in Spain to negotiate a possible deal which would allow Messi to leave the Nou Camp.&nbsp;

Messi, earlier last week, had sent a burofax asking Barcelona to allow him to leave for free, as per an existing clause in his contract. He later skipped the PCR tests conducted by Barcelona while also being absent from new manager Ronald Koeman’s first training session. 
&nbsp;

Over the years, Lionel Messi has troubled Real Madrid a lot while playing for Barcelona but with things developing quick, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner may not be seen playing for Blaugrana in the future.

Over the years, Lionel Messi has troubled Real Madrid a lot while playing for Barcelona but with things developing quick, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner may not be seen playing for Blaugrana in the future. Arch-rival and captain of Real Madrid, Sergio Ramos has given his take on the entire Messi transfer saga as the Spaniard said Messi has earned the right to decide his future. However, Ramos clarified that he doesn’t know whether leaving with a conflict with Barcelona is the right way to leave while adding for Spanish football, Barcelona and Real Madrid, he would like Messi to continue his career at Barcelona. Ramos is of the view that Messi’s presence make La Liga, Barcelona and El Clasicos a better spectacle and added that that he wants to beat the best and Messi is one of the best in the world. IN PICS | Lionel Messi's next team: Clubs who can really afford to sign the Argentine "He's earned the right to decide his future,” Ramos told reporters in a press-conference, “but I don't know if it's the best way." He added: “For Spanish football, for Barcelona and for us, we'd like him to stay. Leo makes the Spanish league, his team and the Clasicos better. "You always like beating the best and he's one of the best in the world." IN PICS | Stay or go? Messi in legal tangle with Barcelona over leaving club Messi’s father Jorge met Barcelona president Josep Bartomeu on Wednesday with another meeting scheduled for Thursday as both the camps look for a mutual agreement in relation to Argentine’s future. While Barcelona continue to remain firm on their stance that they want Messi to stay, his father is in Spain to negotiate a possible deal which would allow Messi to leave the Nou Camp. Messi, earlier last week, had sent a burofax asking Barcelona to allow him to leave for free, as per an existing clause in his contract. He later skipped the PCR tests conducted by Barcelona while also being absent from new manager Ronald Koeman’s first training session.

Should Lionel Messi leave Barcelona? Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos opines

Manchester City left back Oleksandr Zinchenko set aside some time on his wedding day to clarify comments he and his new bride Vlada Sedan made about manager Pep Guardiola in the wake of the club’s Champions League defeat by Olympique Lyon.

Television reporter Sedan delivered a scathing assessment of Guardiola’s tactics and posted an interview with Zinchenko to her YouTube channel after City crashed out in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 loss.

The video prompted an angry response from City supporters and Zinchenko took to social media to defend his comments.

“First of all, I didn’t say anything bad or judgmental about our tactics so don’t confuse my words please,” he said in a lengthy Instagram post.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bayern-munich-10-psg-uefa-champions-league-final-all-the-action-in-pictures-322813">Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures</a>

“On the night we lost to Lyon that doesn’t mean the manager was wrong to try. If you have seen my interviews in the past and the way how I talk about our manager then you can believe me. He’s number one.

“Second one about my wife. Although she is a journalist, she is also a fan ... in the video you can see her emotions straight after the game and she gave an opinion like all fans do because she wanted us to do better.

“I’m writing right now from my wedding and instead of enjoying that unbelievable moment I have to do this because I can’t skip it and leave it like that.”

Manchester City left back Oleksandr Zinchenko set aside some time on his wedding day to clarify comments he and his new bride Vlada Sedan made about manager Pep Guardiola in the wake of the club’s Champions League defeat by Olympique Lyon.

Manchester City left back Oleksandr Zinchenko set aside some time on his wedding day to clarify comments he and his new bride Vlada Sedan made about manager Pep Guardiola in the wake of the club’s Champions League defeat by Olympique Lyon. Television reporter Sedan delivered a scathing assessment of Guardiola’s tactics and posted an interview with Zinchenko to her YouTube channel after City crashed out in the quarter-finals with a 3-1 loss. The video prompted an angry response from City supporters and Zinchenko took to social media to defend his comments. “First of all, I didn’t say anything bad or judgmental about our tactics so don’t confuse my words please,” he said in a lengthy Instagram post. IN PICS | Bayern Munich 1:0 PSG, UEFA Champions League Final: All the action in pictures “On the night we lost to Lyon that doesn’t mean the manager was wrong to try. If you have seen my interviews in the past and the way how I talk about our manager then you can believe me. He’s number one. “Second one about my wife. Although she is a journalist, she is also a fan ... in the video you can see her emotions straight after the game and she gave an opinion like all fans do because she wanted us to do better. “I’m writing right now from my wedding and instead of enjoying that unbelievable moment I have to do this because I can’t skip it and leave it like that.”

Manchester City's Zinchenko interrupts wedding day to clarify Guardiola comments

Just days after a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich, Barcelona's star captain Lionel Messi has told to the club that he wants to leave the club this summer.&nbsp;

FC Barcelona were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Friday night. According to Esporte Interativo, Lionel Messi has grown weary of the lack of planning at the club and wants an immediate exit.

It is said that the football maestro feels "isolated" after consecutively failing to win the Champions League and losing the La Liga title to their arch-rivals Real Madrid.&nbsp;

Manchester City are the favourites to secure a deal for Lionel Messi and the fans can witness him reunite with former boss Pep Guardiola.&nbsp;

Messi has been in conflict with Barcelona's top brass including the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu for over a year.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave on a free transfer after a season has ended. But the clause expired in May this year.&nbsp;

Barcelona's all-time top scorer Lionel Messi's buyout clause is at whopping £635 million, which is out of the reach of every club, but the club don’t have the money to finance the squad rebuild so they might sacrifice their most precious asset to make it happen.

Just days after a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich, Barcelona's star captain Lionel Messi has told to the club that he wants to leave the club this summer. FC Barcelona were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Friday night.

Just days after a humiliating loss to Bayern Munich, Barcelona's star captain Lionel Messi has told to the club that he wants to leave the club this summer. FC Barcelona were thrashed 8-2 by Bayern Munich in their Champions League quarter-final on Friday night. According to Esporte Interativo, Lionel Messi has grown weary of the lack of planning at the club and wants an immediate exit. It is said that the football maestro feels "isolated" after consecutively failing to win the Champions League and losing the La Liga title to their arch-rivals Real Madrid. Manchester City are the favourites to secure a deal for Lionel Messi and the fans can witness him reunite with former boss Pep Guardiola. Messi has been in conflict with Barcelona's top brass including the club president Josep Maria Bartomeu for over a year. Lionel Messi has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave on a free transfer after a season has ended. But the clause expired in May this year. Barcelona's all-time top scorer Lionel Messi's buyout clause is at whopping £635 million, which is out of the reach of every club, but the club don’t have the money to finance the squad rebuild so they might sacrifice their most precious asset to make it happen.

Football star Lionel Messi tells Barcelona that he wants to leave 'immediately'

Manchester City have signed defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday.

Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported City paid Bournemouth 40 million pounds ($52 million) to sign the 25-year-old with an additional 1 million pounds to be paid in add-ons.

"City have been the best side in England over the course of the last decade," Ake said in a statement. "Coming here is a dream for me. This is a top side full of world class players.

“Pep (Guardiola) is a manager admired across the world – what he’s done in the game speaks for itself. The success he’s had is unbelievable and the style of football he plays really appeals to me.”

Bournemouth were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of the season and Ake is one of their players who was expected to leave to continue playing in the top flight.

The Netherlands international, who has also played as a left back, came through Chelsea’s youth system and was initially loaned out to Bournemouth before he signed permanently for the south coast club in June 2017.

Ake had loan spells at Watford and Reading before making 121 appearances for Bournemouth across all competitions, scoring 11 times and playing more minutes in the Premier League than any other player at the club.

City, who finished runners-up in the Premier League to Liverpool, are looking to strengthen their central defence as Guardiola aims to improve his squad for a title challenge next season.

Ake is City’s second recruit in the off season after the club signed Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia on a five-year contract on Tuesday in a deal reported by British media to be worth 23 million euros ($27 million).

Manchester City have signed defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported City paid Bournemouth 40 million pounds ($52 million) to sign the 25-year-old with an additional 1 million pounds to be paid in add-ons.

Manchester City have signed defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported City paid Bournemouth 40 million pounds ($52 million) to sign the 25-year-old with an additional 1 million pounds to be paid in add-ons. "City have been the best side in England over the course of the last decade," Ake said in a statement. "Coming here is a dream for me. This is a top side full of world class players. “Pep (Guardiola) is a manager admired across the world – what he’s done in the game speaks for itself. The success he’s had is unbelievable and the style of football he plays really appeals to me.” Bournemouth were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of the season and Ake is one of their players who was expected to leave to continue playing in the top flight. The Netherlands international, who has also played as a left back, came through Chelsea’s youth system and was initially loaned out to Bournemouth before he signed permanently for the south coast club in June 2017. Ake had loan spells at Watford and Reading before making 121 appearances for Bournemouth across all competitions, scoring 11 times and playing more minutes in the Premier League than any other player at the club. City, who finished runners-up in the Premier League to Liverpool, are looking to strengthen their central defence as Guardiola aims to improve his squad for a title challenge next season. Ake is City’s second recruit in the off season after the club signed Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia on a five-year contract on Tuesday in a deal reported by British media to be worth 23 million euros ($27 million).

Man City sign Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake

Manchester City have announced the signing of Valencia winger Ferran Torres on a five-year deal as Pep Guardiola looks to bolster his attacking options.

The 20-year-old Spaniard, City's first signing of the summer transfer window, has penned a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £20.9 million ($27 million).

"I am so happy to be joining City," Torres told the Premier League club's website. "Every player wants to be involved in attacking teams and Manchester City are one of the most attacking in world football.

"Pep encourages a really open, aggressive style, which I love, and he is a manager with a proven track record of improving players. To have him overseeing my development is a dream."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here we go! We’re delighted to announce the signing of <a href="https://twitter.com/FerranTorres20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FerranTorres20</a> from Valencia on a five-year deal ✍️ 
 
🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> | <a href="https://t.co/axa0klD5re">https://t.co/axa0klD5re</a> <a href="https://t.co/hzCbdoRsxL">pic.twitter.com/hzCbdoRsxL</a>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1290724181886279685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Guardiola is keen to strengthen his squad following the loss of their Premier League title to Liverpool -- they have also agreed a £41 million fee for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake.

"We have followed Ferran's progress closely and have been very impressed," said City director of football Txiki Begiristain.

"He is young and still developing, but his technical qualities are exactly what we are looking for in a winger. He is quick, direct, can create space with one movement and is capable of producing match-winning moments."

Torres can play on either wing and operate through the middle, with pace and an ability to beat players his main attributes.

He made 44 appearances for Valencia last season, scoring six goals.

Valencia tweeted: "You arrived at our Academy at 7 years old. We have been by your side through all this time seeing you grow as a footballer and as a person. At this point you have decided to separate our paths. @FerranTorres20 , we wish you the best with @ManCity."

Two-time defending champions City finished 18 points behind Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, who were crowned champions in June after a three-month hiatus due to the coronavirus.

Manchester City have announced the signing of Valencia winger Ferran Torres on a five-year deal as Pep Guardiola looks to bolster his attacking options. The 20-year-old Spaniard, City's first signing of the summer transfer window, has penned a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £20.

Manchester City have announced the signing of Valencia winger Ferran Torres on a five-year deal as Pep Guardiola looks to bolster his attacking options. The 20-year-old Spaniard, City's first signing of the summer transfer window, has penned a five-year contract for a reported initial fee of £20.9 million ($27 million). "I am so happy to be joining City," Torres told the Premier League club's website. "Every player wants to be involved in attacking teams and Manchester City are one of the most attacking in world football. "Pep encourages a really open, aggressive style, which I love, and he is a manager with a proven track record of improving players. To have him overseeing my development is a dream." Here we go! We’re delighted to announce the signing of @FerranTorres20 from Valencia on a five-year deal ✍️ 🔵 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klD5re pic.twitter.com/hzCbdoRsxL — Manchester City (@ManCity) August 4, 2020 × Guardiola is keen to strengthen his squad following the loss of their Premier League title to Liverpool -- they have also agreed a £41 million fee for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake. "We have followed Ferran's progress closely and have been very impressed," said City director of football Txiki Begiristain. "He is young and still developing, but his technical qualities are exactly what we are looking for in a winger. He is quick, direct, can create space with one movement and is capable of producing match-winning moments." Torres can play on either wing and operate through the middle, with pace and an ability to beat players his main attributes. He made 44 appearances for Valencia last season, scoring six goals. Valencia tweeted: "You arrived at our Academy at 7 years old. We have been by your side through all this time seeing you grow as a footballer and as a person. At this point you have decided to separate our paths. @FerranTorres20 , we wish you the best with @ManCity." Two-time defending champions City finished 18 points behind Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, who were crowned champions in June after a three-month hiatus due to the coronavirus.

Coup! Manchester City sign winger Ferran Torres from Valencia

Manchester City are all set to sign defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth after agreeing a £41 million ($53 million) deal. Man City reportedly negotiated a £40 million transfer fee with the Cherries, who got relegated to the Championship, with the deal potentially rising by £1 million depending on the clauses. Man City have reportedly agreed a deal for 20-year-old Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia.

Ake’s arrival at the Etihad Stadium comes after the Blues witnessed a poor season defensively after Vincent Kompany’s departure to Anderlecht last year. Aymeric Laporte, who had endured a long-term injury, was the standout centre-back for Man City but the poor form of John Stones and Nicholas Otamendi, forced Pep Guardiola to play Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho and youngster Eric Garcia at the back.

City never looked settled and the weakness played a crucial role in Liverpool ending their two-year reign as Premier League winners.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sarri-tempted-to-field-under-23-team-as-juve-crash-to-humiliating-defeat-316922" hreflang="en">Sarri tempted to field Under-23 team as Juve crash to humiliating defeat</a>

Ake had been Bournemouth’s best defender since joining from Chelsea in 2017 and there was strong interest expected during the summer transfer window and City made the first move to seal the deal for the left-footed Dutch.

Ake has already capped 13 times by the Netherlands and missed Bournemouth’s final three Premier League matches after suffering a groin injury against Leicester in mid-July.

Asked if Ake may have made his final appearance for Bournemouth after the Leicester game, Howe replied: "I think it would be silly of me to comment on that, to be honest, at this moment in time.

"I think next season and everything beyond it will take care of itself."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-marnus-labuschagne-thriving-to-be-the-best-316956" hreflang="en">Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best</a>

City are also involved in advanced negotiations with Valencia as they look to sign Ferran Torres from the Spanish club.

It is understand the Premier League side have agreed an initial fee of £20.9 million with Valencia and talks over potential add-ons are continuing.

City are in the market for a new winger following the departure of Leroy Sane to Bayern Munich. 
&nbsp;

Manchester City are all set to sign defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth after agreeing a £41 million ($53 million) deal. Man City reportedly negotiated a £40 million transfer fee with the Cherries, who got relegated to the Championship, with the deal potentially rising by £1 million depending on the clauses.

Manchester City are all set to sign defender Nathan Ake from Bournemouth after agreeing a £41 million ($53 million) deal. Man City reportedly negotiated a £40 million transfer fee with the Cherries, who got relegated to the Championship, with the deal potentially rising by £1 million depending on the clauses. Man City have reportedly agreed a deal for 20-year-old Spanish winger Ferran Torres from Valencia. Ake’s arrival at the Etihad Stadium comes after the Blues witnessed a poor season defensively after Vincent Kompany’s departure to Anderlecht last year. Aymeric Laporte, who had endured a long-term injury, was the standout centre-back for Man City but the poor form of John Stones and Nicholas Otamendi, forced Pep Guardiola to play Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho and youngster Eric Garcia at the back. City never looked settled and the weakness played a crucial role in Liverpool ending their two-year reign as Premier League winners. ALSO READ: Sarri tempted to field Under-23 team as Juve crash to humiliating defeat Ake had been Bournemouth’s best defender since joining from Chelsea in 2017 and there was strong interest expected during the summer transfer window and City made the first move to seal the deal for the left-footed Dutch. Ake has already capped 13 times by the Netherlands and missed Bournemouth’s final three Premier League matches after suffering a groin injury against Leicester in mid-July. Asked if Ake may have made his final appearance for Bournemouth after the Leicester game, Howe replied: "I think it would be silly of me to comment on that, to be honest, at this moment in time. "I think next season and everything beyond it will take care of itself." ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best City are also involved in advanced negotiations with Valencia as they look to sign Ferran Torres from the Spanish club. It is understand the Premier League side have agreed an initial fee of £20.9 million with Valencia and talks over potential add-ons are continuing. City are in the market for a new winger following the departure of Leroy Sane to Bayern Munich.

Man City set to complete double signing of Nathan Ake and Ferran Torres

UEFA’s claim that Manchester City “disguised equity funding” from their owners was “unsubstantiated” but the club showed “blatant disregard” to the Financial Fair Play investigation, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Tuesday.

The CAS panel that heard Premier League City’s appeal published their full reasoning for overturning the English club’s two-year ban from European football earlier this month.

The decision allows City to compete in next season’s elite Champions League competition.

Sport’s highest court also reduced the fine for City’s failure to cooperate with UEFA to 10 million euros ($11.72 million) from 30 million euros.

European soccer’s governing body UEFA ruled in February that City had committed serious FFP breaches and failed to cooperate with its investigation.

The FFP regulations are designed to stop clubs running up big losses through spending on players. They also ensure sponsorship deals are based on their real market value and are genuine commercial agreements and not ways for owners to pump cash into a club to get around the rules.

UEFA opened an investigation into City in March 2019 after the publication of ‘Football Leaks’ documents led to allegations that the club’s Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with the FFP requirements.

The leaked documents included club emails which referred to money being “routed” through sponsors.

CAS ruled that the leaked documents could be used as evidence but noted that they did not prove the existence of any actual transactions that broke UEFA’s rules and no evidence was produced that such payments were carried out.

The court also pointed out that the leaked emails were distributed internally and not sent to sponsors or other parts of the club’s United Arab Emirates based owners.

The panel also said that some of UEFA’s charges related to material that was over five years old and was therefore time-barred according to UEFA’s own rules.

City did not supply UEFA’s investigation with the original emails related to the leaked documents but CAS also noted that UEFA did not “pursue” that evidence before the hearing.

“UEFA’s approach in this regard is understood, because it was faced with a dilemma between trying to obtain additional evidence and having an award issued before the start of the 2020/2021 UEFA club competitions season,” said the CAS panel.

Explaining the decision to overturn the ban, CAS said that the charge of “dishonest concealment of equity”, which was unproven, was more serious than the failure to cooperate with UEFA’s investigation.

“The majority of the panel therefore does not consider it appropriate to impose any ban... for MCFC’s failure to cooperate with the investigations alone,” the judgment concluded.

($1 = 0.8532 euros)

UEFA’s claim that Manchester City “disguised equity funding” from their owners was “unsubstantiated” but the club showed “blatant disregard” to the Financial Fair Play investigation, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Tuesday.

UEFA’s claim that Manchester City “disguised equity funding” from their owners was “unsubstantiated” but the club showed “blatant disregard” to the Financial Fair Play investigation, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Tuesday. The CAS panel that heard Premier League City’s appeal published their full reasoning for overturning the English club’s two-year ban from European football earlier this month. The decision allows City to compete in next season’s elite Champions League competition. Sport’s highest court also reduced the fine for City’s failure to cooperate with UEFA to 10 million euros ($11.72 million) from 30 million euros. European soccer’s governing body UEFA ruled in February that City had committed serious FFP breaches and failed to cooperate with its investigation. The FFP regulations are designed to stop clubs running up big losses through spending on players. They also ensure sponsorship deals are based on their real market value and are genuine commercial agreements and not ways for owners to pump cash into a club to get around the rules. UEFA opened an investigation into City in March 2019 after the publication of ‘Football Leaks’ documents led to allegations that the club’s Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with the FFP requirements. The leaked documents included club emails which referred to money being “routed” through sponsors. CAS ruled that the leaked documents could be used as evidence but noted that they did not prove the existence of any actual transactions that broke UEFA’s rules and no evidence was produced that such payments were carried out. The court also pointed out that the leaked emails were distributed internally and not sent to sponsors or other parts of the club’s United Arab Emirates based owners. The panel also said that some of UEFA’s charges related to material that was over five years old and was therefore time-barred according to UEFA’s own rules. City did not supply UEFA’s investigation with the original emails related to the leaked documents but CAS also noted that UEFA did not “pursue” that evidence before the hearing. “UEFA’s approach in this regard is understood, because it was faced with a dilemma between trying to obtain additional evidence and having an award issued before the start of the 2020/2021 UEFA club competitions season,” said the CAS panel. Explaining the decision to overturn the ban, CAS said that the charge of “dishonest concealment of equity”, which was unproven, was more serious than the failure to cooperate with UEFA’s investigation. “The majority of the panel therefore does not consider it appropriate to impose any ban... for MCFC’s failure to cooperate with the investigations alone,” the judgment concluded. ($1 = 0.8532 euros)

No evidence Man City broke FFP rules but they failed to cooperate - CAS

Factbox on Premier League club Manchester City’s two-year UEFA ban from European soccer which was was overturned by the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Monday.

* In February, Manchester City were banned from European competition for the next two seasons and fined 30 million euros ($33.95 million) by European Soccer’s governing body UEFA after an investigation into alleged breaches of its Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.

* FFP rules, introduced in 2011, are designed to prevent clubs receiving unlimited funds through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to owners.

Clubs that breach rules can be barred from European competition but negotiated settlements are more common.

* UEFA opened an investigation into City in March 2019 after the publication of ‘Football Leaks’ documents led to allegations that the club’s Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with the FFP requirements.

* The leaked documents included club emails which referred to money being “routed” through sponsors. Reuters was unable to verify if such payments were made.

* As well as questioning the nature of the documents, City were unhappy at the way in which UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) conducted the investigation.

* The CFCB said when City were banned that the club broke rules by “overstating sponsorship revenue in its accounts and in the break-even information submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016”.

It added the club had “failed to cooperate in the investigation”.

* City denied any wrongdoing, adding they had not received a fair hearing and appealed to sport’s highest court.

* CAS said on Monday after overturning the ban that City would be fined 10 million euros for failing to cooperate with UEFA.

($1 = 0.8835 euros)

Factbox on Premier League club Manchester City’s two-year UEFA ban from European soccer which was was overturned by the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Monday.

Factbox on Premier League club Manchester City’s two-year UEFA ban from European soccer which was was overturned by the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) on Monday. * In February, Manchester City were banned from European competition for the next two seasons and fined 30 million euros ($33.95 million) by European Soccer’s governing body UEFA after an investigation into alleged breaches of its Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules. * FFP rules, introduced in 2011, are designed to prevent clubs receiving unlimited funds through inflated sponsorship deals with organisations related to owners. Clubs that breach rules can be barred from European competition but negotiated settlements are more common. * UEFA opened an investigation into City in March 2019 after the publication of ‘Football Leaks’ documents led to allegations that the club’s Abu Dhabi owners inflated sponsorship agreements to comply with the FFP requirements. * The leaked documents included club emails which referred to money being “routed” through sponsors. Reuters was unable to verify if such payments were made. * As well as questioning the nature of the documents, City were unhappy at the way in which UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) conducted the investigation. * The CFCB said when City were banned that the club broke rules by “overstating sponsorship revenue in its accounts and in the break-even information submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016”. It added the club had “failed to cooperate in the investigation”. * City denied any wrongdoing, adding they had not received a fair hearing and appealed to sport’s highest court. * CAS said on Monday after overturning the ban that City would be fined 10 million euros for failing to cooperate with UEFA. ($1 = 0.8835 euros)

Factbox - Manchester City's European ban overturned by CAS

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has "a lot of confidence" his club will avoid a two-season ban from European competitions when the verdict of their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is revealed later this month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-win-holds-off-rampant-manchester-united-in-race-for-premier-league-top-four-310825" hreflang="en">Chelsea win holds off rampant Man United in race for Premier League top four</a>

City were banned from UEFA competitions for two years by the European governing body in February after being found guilty of overstating sponsorship outcome to avoid breaches of Financial Fair Play regulations.

Their case was heard by CAS last month and the club have always been bullish about the potential outcome.

"We are ready. I have a lot of confidence and trust with the people that we will be allowed to play the Champions League, because we want to be on the field during these years," said Guardiola.

"On July 13 we will know the resolution, hopefully, for the club - all the workers, players and everyone here, staff - to try to continue growing up as a club in the next years."

Amid the off-field issues, City remain one of the favourites to win this season's Champions League, which is now due to resume in August.

City hold a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid after the first leg of their last-16 tie.

There is still uncertainty over where the return match will be played with the rest of the competition from the quarter-finals to be played at neutral venues in Lisbon.

City may have surrendered their Premier League title to Liverpool but a 4-0 thrashing of the newly-crowned English champions on Thursday showed why Guardiola's men are still among the most feared sides in Europe.

"Every game is different but I cannot deny beating Liverpool the way we did (was good)," said Guardiola, whose side travel to Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday. "Football is about feelings, moments.

"Sometimes your mood is up, sometimes it is down when you face these games, but we can say we beat maybe the best team in the world right now. So we can do it.

"Every game is different, (FA Cup semi-final opponents) Arsenal play different, Madrid play different. Each game you have to adjust the qualities.

"What I want is to arrive in the best conditions possible to these games and after put mentality on the pitch.

"These games are not won with tactics or ideas, it is desire. We want to do it. When one team wants to do it - OK they can be beaten - but it will not be easy for the opponent."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has "a lot of confidence" his club will avoid a two-season ban from European competitions when the verdict of their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is revealed later this month.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has "a lot of confidence" his club will avoid a two-season ban from European competitions when the verdict of their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is revealed later this month. Also read: Chelsea win holds off rampant Man United in race for Premier League top four City were banned from UEFA competitions for two years by the European governing body in February after being found guilty of overstating sponsorship outcome to avoid breaches of Financial Fair Play regulations. Their case was heard by CAS last month and the club have always been bullish about the potential outcome. "We are ready. I have a lot of confidence and trust with the people that we will be allowed to play the Champions League, because we want to be on the field during these years," said Guardiola. "On July 13 we will know the resolution, hopefully, for the club - all the workers, players and everyone here, staff - to try to continue growing up as a club in the next years." Amid the off-field issues, City remain one of the favourites to win this season's Champions League, which is now due to resume in August. City hold a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid after the first leg of their last-16 tie. There is still uncertainty over where the return match will be played with the rest of the competition from the quarter-finals to be played at neutral venues in Lisbon. City may have surrendered their Premier League title to Liverpool but a 4-0 thrashing of the newly-crowned English champions on Thursday showed why Guardiola's men are still among the most feared sides in Europe. "Every game is different but I cannot deny beating Liverpool the way we did (was good)," said Guardiola, whose side travel to Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday. "Football is about feelings, moments. "Sometimes your mood is up, sometimes it is down when you face these games, but we can say we beat maybe the best team in the world right now. So we can do it. "Every game is different, (FA Cup semi-final opponents) Arsenal play different, Madrid play different. Each game you have to adjust the qualities. "What I want is to arrive in the best conditions possible to these games and after put mentality on the pitch. "These games are not won with tactics or ideas, it is desire. We want to do it. When one team wants to do it - OK they can be beaten - but it will not be easy for the opponent."

Pep Guardiola confident Manchester City will avoid Champions League ban

Jurgen Klopp was adamant results remain important to him in Liverpool's closing games after the newly crowned Premier League champions were humbled 4-0 by Manchester City.

The Reds came down to earth with a bump at the Etihad on Thursday in their first match since securing the title last week.

Klopp's side still have a 20-point lead over Pep Guardiola's second-placed team but with six games remaining but the German boss still wants to finish strongly.

"If someone said the result didn't matter for my team, I cannot help them," Klopp said.

"Yes, results matter a lot. I am not only looking for results but we want to win football games -- that is the reason we work on the training ground, go to away games and play home games."

One motivating factor could be the challenge of beating City's record of 100 points from two seasons ago.

Liverpool, who have dropped points in just four games this season, currently have 86 ahead of Sunday's home clash with Aston Villa.

"To get there we have to win football games and we didn't do that here," he said.

"So now we make sure we are ready for Aston Villa and the points tally at the end of the season is the result of the results we collect until then."

Liverpool started brightly against City, with Mohamed Salah testing Ederson and then hitting the post, but the hosts took charge after Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 25 minutes.&nbsp;

Further goals came from Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden before Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain put a Sterling shot into his own net.

Despite the big points gap, City remain a potent force and could end the season with Champions League glory.

"It's a reminder how good Man City are," Klopp said. "I didn't need that, I knew it before. The surprise that it's still possible, nice, that in a league where City are playing, someone else can be champions. That's not very likely with the quality they have.

"We will see next season but it's a while until then. Next season we will think about next season."

Jurgen Klopp was adamant results remain important to him in Liverpool's closing games after the newly crowned Premier League champions were humbled 4-0 by Manchester City.

Jurgen Klopp was adamant results remain important to him in Liverpool's closing games after the newly crowned Premier League champions were humbled 4-0 by Manchester City. The Reds came down to earth with a bump at the Etihad on Thursday in their first match since securing the title last week. Klopp's side still have a 20-point lead over Pep Guardiola's second-placed team but with six games remaining but the German boss still wants to finish strongly. "If someone said the result didn't matter for my team, I cannot help them," Klopp said. "Yes, results matter a lot. I am not only looking for results but we want to win football games -- that is the reason we work on the training ground, go to away games and play home games." One motivating factor could be the challenge of beating City's record of 100 points from two seasons ago. Liverpool, who have dropped points in just four games this season, currently have 86 ahead of Sunday's home clash with Aston Villa. "To get there we have to win football games and we didn't do that here," he said. "So now we make sure we are ready for Aston Villa and the points tally at the end of the season is the result of the results we collect until then." Liverpool started brightly against City, with Mohamed Salah testing Ederson and then hitting the post, but the hosts took charge after Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 25 minutes. Further goals came from Raheem Sterling and Phil Foden before Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain put a Sterling shot into his own net. Despite the big points gap, City remain a potent force and could end the season with Champions League glory. "It's a reminder how good Man City are," Klopp said. "I didn't need that, I knew it before. The surprise that it's still possible, nice, that in a league where City are playing, someone else can be champions. That's not very likely with the quality they have. "We will see next season but it's a while until then. Next season we will think about next season."

Premier League: Jurgen Klopp targets strong finish after Man City thumping

Bayern Munich on Friday confirmed the signing of Germany winger Leroy Sane from Manchester City on a five-year contract for reportedly at least 50 million euros.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-fans-left-fuming-with-leroy-sane-set-to-join-bayern-munich-309914">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-fans-left-fuming-with-leroy-sane-set-to-join-bayern-munich-309914">Manchester City fans left fuming with Leroy Sane set to join Bayern Munich</a>

"FC Bayern is a very big club and has big goals - these goals suit me as well," said the 24-year-old, who added wants to win the Champions League with the Bundesliga giants.

"I'm looking forward to the new challenge and can't wait to train with the team."

Sane is looking forward to linking up again with Bayern head coach Hansi Flick, who has just steered the club to an eighth straight league title in his first season in charge.

"I know Hansi Flick from the U21 national team, we had a very good relationship there," added Sane.

"I want to win as many titles as possible with FC Bayern, and the Champions League is at the top."

The Bundesliga champions did not give the transfer fee, but Sky&nbsp;Sports&nbsp;and the BBC have reported that Bayern and City agreed a fee of £54.8 million (59.97 million euros, $67.36 million).

German daily Bild claim the fee is around "at least 50 million euros".

"We are happy that we can welcome Leroy Sane to Bayern," said club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

"He is an excellent player who has proven his qualities over the past years, especially in the national team.

"Our goal is to gather the best German players at FC Bayern and Leroy's commitment confirms that."

The 24-year-old will start preparing for next season in Munich next week, the club has said, meaning he will sit out Saturday's German Cup final against Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin.

Last year, Sane had reportedly been on the verge of a three-digit million euros transfer to Bayern before suffering a serious knee injury in August which sidelined him until February.

After rebuilding his fitness, the Germany international made his first Premier League appearance of the season as a substitute against Burnley last week.

His transfer became an open secret after City manager Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this week that Sane was likely to leave after rejecting a new contract offer with a year left on his contract in Manchester.

"We wish Leroy all the best in this new chapter of his career," said Guardiola in a statement on Friday.

"Leroy has been part of one of the most special periods in this club’s history and he leaves with the best wishes of everyone here at Manchester City."

Sane, who won the Premier League title twice with City, has scored 39 goals in 135 matches in all competitions for the Citizens since joining from Bundesliga club Schalke in 2016.

The fleet-footed winger will bolster Bayern's attack out wide.

"With Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman and Leroy, we are now very well occupied at the highest level on the wing, positions that are important for our game," said Bayern&nbsp;sports&nbsp;director Hasan Salihamidzic.

Sane is Bayern's third new signing for next season alongside French teenage defender Tanguy Nianzou Kouassi from Paris Saint-Germain and goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel from Schalke, both of which were free transfers.

Bayern Munich on Friday confirmed the signing of Germany winger Leroy Sane from Manchester City on a five-year contract for reportedly at least 50 million euros.

Bayern Munich on Friday confirmed the signing of Germany winger Leroy Sane from Manchester City on a five-year contract for reportedly at least 50 million euros. Also read: Manchester City fans left fuming with Leroy Sane set to join Bayern Munich "FC Bayern is a very big club and has big goals - these goals suit me as well," said the 24-year-old, who added wants to win the Champions League with the Bundesliga giants. "I'm looking forward to the new challenge and can't wait to train with the team." Sane is looking forward to linking up again with Bayern head coach Hansi Flick, who has just steered the club to an eighth straight league title in his first season in charge. "I know Hansi Flick from the U21 national team, we had a very good relationship there," added Sane. "I want to win as many titles as possible with FC Bayern, and the Champions League is at the top." The Bundesliga champions did not give the transfer fee, but Sky Sports and the BBC have reported that Bayern and City agreed a fee of £54.8 million (59.97 million euros, $67.36 million). German daily Bild claim the fee is around "at least 50 million euros". "We are happy that we can welcome Leroy Sane to Bayern," said club chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "He is an excellent player who has proven his qualities over the past years, especially in the national team. "Our goal is to gather the best German players at FC Bayern and Leroy's commitment confirms that." The 24-year-old will start preparing for next season in Munich next week, the club has said, meaning he will sit out Saturday's German Cup final against Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin. Last year, Sane had reportedly been on the verge of a three-digit million euros transfer to Bayern before suffering a serious knee injury in August which sidelined him until February. After rebuilding his fitness, the Germany international made his first Premier League appearance of the season as a substitute against Burnley last week. His transfer became an open secret after City manager Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this week that Sane was likely to leave after rejecting a new contract offer with a year left on his contract in Manchester. "We wish Leroy all the best in this new chapter of his career," said Guardiola in a statement on Friday. "Leroy has been part of one of the most special periods in this club’s history and he leaves with the best wishes of everyone here at Manchester City." Sane, who won the Premier League title twice with City, has scored 39 goals in 135 matches in all competitions for the Citizens since joining from Bundesliga club Schalke in 2016. The fleet-footed winger will bolster Bayern's attack out wide. "With Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman and Leroy, we are now very well occupied at the highest level on the wing, positions that are important for our game," said Bayern sports director Hasan Salihamidzic. Sane is Bayern's third new signing for next season alongside French teenage defender Tanguy Nianzou Kouassi from Paris Saint-Germain and goalkeeper Alexander Nuebel from Schalke, both of which were free transfers.

Bayern Munich confirm Leroy Sane signing from Manchester City

Leroy Sane's transfer to Bayern Munich has left many Manchester City fans fuming.&nbsp;

The Bundesliga Champions had shown their interest in the player last year but they dropped the plan after Sane got injured during a match against Liverpool.&nbsp;

Man City agreed to a €45 million deal with Bayern Munich, this deal included €11 million in add-ons.&nbsp;

Winger Leroy Sane is set to sign a five-year-deal worth €22 million, this is double the amount Man City had offered in contract negotiations.&nbsp;

City fans took out their anger on Twitter, some said the fee was too as compared to player's abilities.&nbsp;

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Leroy Sané to Bayern for under €50m is an incredible signing. They have managed to successfully replace Robben &amp; Ribery with Gnabry &amp; Sané. An incredible duo alongside Lewandowski. Further highlights the importance of effective and efficient management by directors at a club.
— TR (@TacticalRole) <a href="https://twitter.com/TacticalRole/status/1278017227569029121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Manchester City going to replace Leroy Sane with Jack Grealish? <a href="https://t.co/iMf1LtiYhe">pic.twitter.com/iMf1LtiYhe</a>
— Lee Lloyd (@leelloyd_) <a href="https://twitter.com/leelloyd_/status/1278015190966001664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Man City coach Pep Guardiola said that the team is unlikely to buy a replacement for Sane as there are many options in the team.&nbsp;

He said: "I don’t know if he (Sane) is going to leave this summer or at the end of his contract but we have enough good players upfront.

"Gabriel (Jesus) can play on the left, Phil Foden can play on the left, we have Raheem (Sterling) there. We have big, talented players upfront.

“Most of them are in good healthy conditions, like Phil, Riyad (Mahrez), Gabriel, Raheem, they can play quite regularly for a long period, they are so stable in terms of injury situations.

"I think we have other priorities maybe. And I don’t know, after the coronavirus, if the situation economically and financially for the clubs is changing.

“I don’t know what the situation is. We’re going to see at the end of this season.” 
&nbsp;

Leroy Sane's transfer to Bayern Munich has left many Manchester City fans fuming. The Bundesliga Champions had shown their interest in the player last year but they dropped the plan after Sane got injured during a match against Liverpool.

Leroy Sane's transfer to Bayern Munich has left many Manchester City fans fuming. The Bundesliga Champions had shown their interest in the player last year but they dropped the plan after Sane got injured during a match against Liverpool. Man City agreed to a €45 million deal with Bayern Munich, this deal included €11 million in add-ons. Winger Leroy Sane is set to sign a five-year-deal worth €22 million, this is double the amount Man City had offered in contract negotiations. City fans took out their anger on Twitter, some said the fee was too as compared to player's abilities. Leroy Sané to Bayern for under €50m is an incredible signing. They have managed to successfully replace Robben & Ribery with Gnabry & Sané. An incredible duo alongside Lewandowski. Further highlights the importance of effective and efficient management by directors at a club. — TR (@TacticalRole) June 30, 2020 × Manchester City going to replace Leroy Sane with Jack Grealish? pic.twitter.com/iMf1LtiYhe — Lee Lloyd (@leelloyd_) June 30, 2020 × Man City coach Pep Guardiola said that the team is unlikely to buy a replacement for Sane as there are many options in the team. He said: "I don’t know if he (Sane) is going to leave this summer or at the end of his contract but we have enough good players upfront. "Gabriel (Jesus) can play on the left, Phil Foden can play on the left, we have Raheem (Sterling) there. We have big, talented players upfront. “Most of them are in good healthy conditions, like Phil, Riyad (Mahrez), Gabriel, Raheem, they can play quite regularly for a long period, they are so stable in terms of injury situations. "I think we have other priorities maybe. And I don’t know, after the coronavirus, if the situation economically and financially for the clubs is changing. “I don’t know what the situation is. We’re going to see at the end of this season.”

Manchester City fans left fuming with Leroy Sane set to join Bayern Munich

Manchester City has resumed their Premier League campaign on a positive note after beating Arsenal 3-0 behind closed doors in the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-luiz-takes-blame-after-manchester-city-defeats-arsenal-306648">David Luiz takes blame after Manchester City defeats Arsenal</a>

City's Raheem Sterling shined as the team returned to action after being on halt for three months due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Manchester City's win over Arsenal has cut short Liverpool's celebrations as Jurgen Klopp's side cannot lift the trophy on Sunday at Everton in the Merseyside derby.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/black-lives-matter-english-premier-league-players-take-knee-in-solidarity-306656" hreflang="en">Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity</a>

The English Premier League restarted after a 100-day break due to the coronavirus pandemic as Manchester City and Arsenal players took a knee in solidarity with Black Lives Matter protests sweeping the world after George Floyd's killing in Minneapolis by a police officer.

A minute's silence was also observed for those who lost their lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic including Pep Guardiola's mother who passed away recently.

The goal came after Arsenal substitute David Luiz failed to deal with a ball into the box and allowed Sterling in on goal, and the Brazilian was at fault again for City's second.

His challenge saw him a red and gave a penalty Manchester City. Kevin De Bruyne took the penalty and scored.&nbsp;

David Luiz has taken the blame for the team's loss. "It's not the team's fault, it was my fault," he said. "Today I think the team did well, especially with 10 men, the coach is amazing, the players did amazing, it's just my fault.

"I decided to play, I should have taken another decision in the last two months, but I didn't. It was all about my contract, whether I stay or not. I have 14 days to be here, and that's it. Today was my fault."

Luiz produced a catalogue of errors in a torrid 25-minute cameo appearance as 10-man Arsenal suffered a heavy loss at City on the Premier League's return.

Guardiola's side wrapped up the win in stoppage time when Sergio Aguero hit the post, after a neat exchange with Sterling, and substitute Phil Foden slotted home the loose ball.

Manchester City has resumed their Premier League campaign on a positive note after beating Arsenal 3-0 behind closed doors in the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. Also read: David Luiz takes blame after Manchester City defeats Arsenal City's Raheem Sterling shined as the team returned to action after being on halt for three months due to coronavirus pandemic.

Manchester City has resumed their Premier League campaign on a positive note after beating Arsenal 3-0 behind closed doors in the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. Also read: David Luiz takes blame after Manchester City defeats Arsenal City's Raheem Sterling shined as the team returned to action after being on halt for three months due to coronavirus pandemic. Manchester City's win over Arsenal has cut short Liverpool's celebrations as Jurgen Klopp's side cannot lift the trophy on Sunday at Everton in the Merseyside derby. Also read: Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity The English Premier League restarted after a 100-day break due to the coronavirus pandemic as Manchester City and Arsenal players took a knee in solidarity with Black Lives Matter protests sweeping the world after George Floyd's killing in Minneapolis by a police officer. A minute's silence was also observed for those who lost their lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic including Pep Guardiola's mother who passed away recently. The goal came after Arsenal substitute David Luiz failed to deal with a ball into the box and allowed Sterling in on goal, and the Brazilian was at fault again for City's second. His challenge saw him a red and gave a penalty Manchester City. Kevin De Bruyne took the penalty and scored. David Luiz has taken the blame for the team's loss. "It's not the team's fault, it was my fault," he said. "Today I think the team did well, especially with 10 men, the coach is amazing, the players did amazing, it's just my fault. "I decided to play, I should have taken another decision in the last two months, but I didn't. It was all about my contract, whether I stay or not. I have 14 days to be here, and that's it. Today was my fault." Luiz produced a catalogue of errors in a torrid 25-minute cameo appearance as 10-man Arsenal suffered a heavy loss at City on the Premier League's return. Guardiola's side wrapped up the win in stoppage time when Sergio Aguero hit the post, after a neat exchange with Sterling, and substitute Phil Foden slotted home the loose ball.

Manchester City outclass Arsenal; Raheem Sterling coins on David Luiz's mistakes

David Luiz has taken the blame for Arsenal's 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, but insists he wants to extend his contract at the club.

Luiz produced a catalogue of errors in a torrid 25-minute cameo appearance as 10-man Arsenal suffered a heavy loss at City on the Premier League's return.

Brought on as a substitute in the 24th minute following an injury to Pablo Mari, the Brazilian's error led to Raheem Sterling's opener before he was sent off for hauling down Riyad Mahrez inside the penalty area four minutes into the second half.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-english-derby-ends-in-draw-david-luiz-sees-red-275849">Premier League: English derby ends in draw, David Luiz sees red</a>

The 33-year-old's contract at Arsenal is also set to expire in the coming weeks, but he insists he wants to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium.

"It's not the team's fault, it was my fault," he said. "Today I think the team did well, especially with 10 men, the coach is amazing, the players did amazing, it's just my fault.

<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/20346936/skysports/football/teams/arsenal/news_4" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/20346936/skysports/football/teams/arsenal/news_4" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"I took the decision to play, I should have taken another decision in the last two months, but I didn't. It was all about my contract, whether I stay or not. I have 14 days to be here, and that's it. Today was my fault.

Manchester City’s impressive victory ensures Liverpool cannot break their 30-year title drought by beating Everton on Sunday and the sole sour note for the hosts was a nasty late injury to Eric García, who was clattered by Ederson, the keeper rushing out to head a through ball.

David Luiz has taken the blame for Arsenal's 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, but insists he wants to extend his contract at the club. Luiz produced a catalogue of errors in a torrid 25-minute cameo appearance as 10-man Arsenal suffered a heavy loss at City on the Premier League's return.

David Luiz has taken the blame for Arsenal's 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, but insists he wants to extend his contract at the club. Luiz produced a catalogue of errors in a torrid 25-minute cameo appearance as 10-man Arsenal suffered a heavy loss at City on the Premier League's return. Brought on as a substitute in the 24th minute following an injury to Pablo Mari, the Brazilian's error led to Raheem Sterling's opener before he was sent off for hauling down Riyad Mahrez inside the penalty area four minutes into the second half. Also read: Premier League: English derby ends in draw, David Luiz sees red The 33-year-old's contract at Arsenal is also set to expire in the coming weeks, but he insists he wants to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium. "It's not the team's fault, it was my fault," he said. "Today I think the team did well, especially with 10 men, the coach is amazing, the players did amazing, it's just my fault. "I took the decision to play, I should have taken another decision in the last two months, but I didn't. It was all about my contract, whether I stay or not. I have 14 days to be here, and that's it. Today was my fault. Manchester City’s impressive victory ensures Liverpool cannot break their 30-year title drought by beating Everton on Sunday and the sole sour note for the hosts was a nasty late injury to Eric García, who was clattered by Ederson, the keeper rushing out to head a through ball.

David Luiz takes blame after Manchester City defeats Arsenal

The Premier League is back in action after being on halt for almost three months due to coronavirus pandemic. Manchester City will host Arsenal on Wednesday. Both teams have been affected by the virus.

The Premier League is back in action after being on halt for almost three months due to coronavirus pandemic. Manchester City will host Arsenal on Wednesday. Both teams have been affected by the virus. Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta was among the first to contract the virus in Premier League. Pep Guardiola lost his mother in April after she was tested positive for coronavirus. For the Premier League's fan base in India, here are the when and where to watch. Time: 12:45 AM Day: Thursday Venue: Etihad Stadium Broadcasting channels: Star Sports Select The blockbuster clash will be played behind closed doors but it won’t matter to the football fanatics much as they will be seeing Premier League coming back on track following a prolonged break due to COVID-19. Both the managers - Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta - thanked the NHS and frontline workers during the pre-match press conference. Both Man City and Arsenal, like other Premier League teams, have been working rigorously to get back to match fitness but are expected to be a bit rusty.

Man City vs Arsenal, Premier League: When and where to watch, live streaming, time in IST

The much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>&nbsp;restart will witness Manchester City face Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The blockbuster clash will be played behind closed doors but it won’t matter to the football fanatics much as they will be seeing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> coming back on track following a prolonged break due to COVID-19.

Both the managers - Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta (who himself has been a COVID-19 survivor) -&nbsp;thanked the NHS and frontline workers during the pre-match press conference. Both Man City and Arsenal, like other <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> teams, have been working rigorously to get back to match fitness but are expected to be a bit rusty.&nbsp;

“You can play a game after three weeks on holiday but we spent two weeks on the sofa doing nothing much. That is why the players are not fully fit.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-man-city-players-not-ready-for-hectic-premier-league-schedule-306320" hreflang="en">Pep Guardiola: Man City players not ready for hectic Premier League schedule</a>

“But that is why we have to finish the season. We have to limit the economic damage to the clubs. The way we are right now, I think other clubs and teams [as well], we don't know. If you ask me how the team is, I don't know,” Guardiola said in the press conference.

<h2>Advantage, Man City?</h2>

Talking about the fixture, Man City have won six straight competitive matches against the Gunners while scoring three goals in five of those six games. Before the league was put on a hold, Man City had won four of their five Premier League home games including a draw.

Whereas Arsenal trail the Champions League spot by eight points but an unbeaten run in the last eight Premier League games will give them an upbeat chance to upset the rusty Blues. With a lot to play for in the season, both the teams would be wanting to get back to full fitness as soon as possible and could treat the match as a stepping stone for the rest of the season. Win, is an absolute necessity for both which makes the contest a promising affair.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arteta-ready-for-challenge-of-premier-league-relaunch-306331" hreflang="en">Arteta ready for challenge of Premier League relaunch</a>

<h2>New Atmosphere: No Atmosphere</h2>

"When I was at the Emirates and there was no crowd, you cannot feel that energy, push or drive," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arteta-ready-for-challenge-of-premier-league-relaunch-306331">Arteta told reporters in a video press conference on Monday.</a>

"The game is different. The intensity drops a little bit. That urgency from the crowd doesn't exist anymore, how passionate the crowds are in England. We have to adapt.

"We have to experience it. We have to find ways to motivate our players as well in moments."

The star-studded affair will feature the likes of Sergio Aguero, Kevin de Bruyne, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Nicolas Pepe, David Silva and many others and the match will come as a massive sigh of relief for Premier League fans.&nbsp;

The much-awaited Premier League restart will witness Manchester City face Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The blockbuster clash will be played behind closed doors but it won’t matter to the football fanatics much as they will be seeing Premier League coming back on track following a prolonged break due to COVID-19.

The much-awaited Premier League restart will witness Manchester City face Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The blockbuster clash will be played behind closed doors but it won’t matter to the football fanatics much as they will be seeing Premier League coming back on track following a prolonged break due to COVID-19. Both the managers - Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta (who himself has been a COVID-19 survivor) - thanked the NHS and frontline workers during the pre-match press conference. Both Man City and Arsenal, like other Premier League teams, have been working rigorously to get back to match fitness but are expected to be a bit rusty. “You can play a game after three weeks on holiday but we spent two weeks on the sofa doing nothing much. That is why the players are not fully fit. ALSO READ: Pep Guardiola: Man City players not ready for hectic Premier League schedule “But that is why we have to finish the season. We have to limit the economic damage to the clubs. The way we are right now, I think other clubs and teams [as well], we don't know. If you ask me how the team is, I don't know,” Guardiola said in the press conference. Advantage, Man City? Talking about the fixture, Man City have won six straight competitive matches against the Gunners while scoring three goals in five of those six games. Before the league was put on a hold, Man City had won four of their five Premier League home games including a draw. Whereas Arsenal trail the Champions League spot by eight points but an unbeaten run in the last eight Premier League games will give them an upbeat chance to upset the rusty Blues. With a lot to play for in the season, both the teams would be wanting to get back to full fitness as soon as possible and could treat the match as a stepping stone for the rest of the season. Win, is an absolute necessity for both which makes the contest a promising affair. ALSO READ: Arteta ready for challenge of Premier League relaunch New Atmosphere: No Atmosphere "When I was at the Emirates and there was no crowd, you cannot feel that energy, push or drive," Arteta told reporters in a video press conference on Monday. "The game is different. The intensity drops a little bit. That urgency from the crowd doesn't exist anymore, how passionate the crowds are in England. We have to adapt. "We have to experience it. We have to find ways to motivate our players as well in moments." The star-studded affair will feature the likes of Sergio Aguero, Kevin de Bruyne, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Nicolas Pepe, David Silva and many others and the match will come as a massive sigh of relief for Premier League fans.

Man City vs Arsenal Preview: A battle between the master and apprentice

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has appointed his mentor and coaching inspiration Juan Manuel Lillo as his new assistant, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Lillo, 54, will take up the role vacated by Mikel Arteta, who left the Etihad Stadium to become manager at former club Arsenal.

The Spaniard joins from Qingdao Huanghai, having helped the club to the Chinese League One championship and so helping them achieve promotion to the Super League.

Lillo, who has previously managed Real Sociedad, Vissel Kobe and Real Oviedo, has worked with several world class talents during his career, including Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Yaya Toure.

He also coached Guardiola towards the end of his playing career, during their shared time in Mexico at Dorados de Sinaloa.

"My relationship with Pep goes back many years and I am thrilled to be joining him as part of this exciting team," Lilo told the club's website.

“Manchester City has enjoyed much success over recent seasons and played a brand of beautiful football we have come to expect from this club and its manager.

“It’s a pleasure to become a part of this group and I hope to make an important contribution to the club’s success going forwards.”

City will restart their campaign after the COVID-19-enforced break against Arsenal on June 17.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has appointed his mentor and coaching inspiration Juan Manuel Lillo as his new assistant, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has appointed his mentor and coaching inspiration Juan Manuel Lillo as his new assistant, the Premier League club said on Tuesday. Lillo, 54, will take up the role vacated by Mikel Arteta, who left the Etihad Stadium to become manager at former club Arsenal. The Spaniard joins from Qingdao Huanghai, having helped the club to the Chinese League One championship and so helping them achieve promotion to the Super League. Lillo, who has previously managed Real Sociedad, Vissel Kobe and Real Oviedo, has worked with several world class talents during his career, including Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Yaya Toure. He also coached Guardiola towards the end of his playing career, during their shared time in Mexico at Dorados de Sinaloa. "My relationship with Pep goes back many years and I am thrilled to be joining him as part of this exciting team," Lilo told the club's website. “Manchester City has enjoyed much success over recent seasons and played a brand of beautiful football we have come to expect from this club and its manager. “It’s a pleasure to become a part of this group and I hope to make an important contribution to the club’s success going forwards.” City will restart their campaign after the COVID-19-enforced break against Arsenal on June 17.

Man City boss Guardiola turns to mentor Lilo to fill Arteta void

The three-day hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) of Manchester City’s appeal against UEFA’s ruling ended on Wednesday with the English club set to find out the verdict in the first half of July. Following the hearing in Lausanne, where concerned authorities and witnesses joined in via video-conference, the panel of arbitrators will now begin with their deliberations.

Man City were handed a two-season ban on European competitions while an additional €30million fine after being found guilty of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulation and UEFA Club Licensing rules’ breaches by the Club Financial Control Body (CFCB).

As soon as the decision by CFCB was announced, Man City made it clear they were going to appeal the decision to CAS.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-vs-uefa-what-to-expect-from-the-cas-hearing-304296" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-vs-uefa-what-to-expect-from-the-cas-hearing-304296&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjC7fPuxPfpAhUUX30KHTO-Dv0QFjADegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1rzItMLjV-4MAqGjLpFD3q" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-vs-uefa-what-to-expect-from-the-cas-hearing-304296" target="_blank">Manchester City&nbsp;vs UEFA: What to expect from the CAS hearing</a>

With CAS looking to announce a decision in the first half of July, Man City would be knowing their fate ahead of the start of 2020/21 season.&nbsp;

A CAS spokesman said: "At the end of the hearing, both parties expressed their satisfaction with respect to the conduct of the procedure.

"The Panel of arbitrators in charge of the matter, composed of Mr Rui Botica Santos (Portugal), president, Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany) and Mr Andrew McDougall QC (France), will start its deliberations and prepare the Arbitral Award containing their decision.

"The decision is expected to be issued during the first half of July 2020."

Man City hierarchy have always maintained their innocence with Ferran Soriano repeatedly stating the allegations are false and all the club was looking forward to was a fair hearing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/schalkes-us-player-weston-mckennie-slams-racist-donald-trump-304884" hreflang="en">Schalke's US player Weston McKennie slams 'racist' Donald Trump</a>

<h2>Full CAS statement</h2>

The hearing in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) arbitration between Manchester City FC and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) concluded at 4:15pm (CET) today. The hearing, initiated on 8 June 2020 in the morning, was conducted by videoconference, with participants in Lausanne and London, and expert witnesses in various countries, in accordance with the schedule planned. At the end of the hearing, both parties expressed their satisfaction with respect to the conduct of the procedure.

The Panel of arbitrators in charge of the matter, composed of Mr Rui Botica Santos (Portugal), president, Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany) and Mr Andrew McDougall QC (France), will start its deliberations and prepare the Arbitral Award containing their decision.

The decision is expected to be issued during the first half of July 2020. The exact date will be communicated in advance.

The CAS arbitration concerns an appeal filed by Manchester City FC against the decision of the Adjudicatory Chamber of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) dated 14 February 2020 in which it was deemed to have contravened UEFA’s Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations and sanctioned with exclusion from participation in UEFA club competitions in the next two seasons and ordered to pay a fine of EUR 30 million. 
&nbsp;

The three-day hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) of Manchester City’s appeal against UEFA’s ruling ended on Wednesday with the English club set to find out the verdict in the first half of July.

The three-day hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) of Manchester City’s appeal against UEFA’s ruling ended on Wednesday with the English club set to find out the verdict in the first half of July. Following the hearing in Lausanne, where concerned authorities and witnesses joined in via video-conference, the panel of arbitrators will now begin with their deliberations. Man City were handed a two-season ban on European competitions while an additional €30million fine after being found guilty of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulation and UEFA Club Licensing rules’ breaches by the Club Financial Control Body (CFCB). As soon as the decision by CFCB was announced, Man City made it clear they were going to appeal the decision to CAS. ALSO READ: Manchester City vs UEFA: What to expect from the CAS hearing With CAS looking to announce a decision in the first half of July, Man City would be knowing their fate ahead of the start of 2020/21 season. A CAS spokesman said: "At the end of the hearing, both parties expressed their satisfaction with respect to the conduct of the procedure. "The Panel of arbitrators in charge of the matter, composed of Mr Rui Botica Santos (Portugal), president, Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany) and Mr Andrew McDougall QC (France), will start its deliberations and prepare the Arbitral Award containing their decision. "The decision is expected to be issued during the first half of July 2020." Man City hierarchy have always maintained their innocence with Ferran Soriano repeatedly stating the allegations are false and all the club was looking forward to was a fair hearing. ALSO READ: Schalke's US player Weston McKennie slams 'racist' Donald Trump Full CAS statement The hearing in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) arbitration between Manchester City FC and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) concluded at 4:15pm (CET) today. The hearing, initiated on 8 June 2020 in the morning, was conducted by videoconference, with participants in Lausanne and London, and expert witnesses in various countries, in accordance with the schedule planned. At the end of the hearing, both parties expressed their satisfaction with respect to the conduct of the procedure. The Panel of arbitrators in charge of the matter, composed of Mr Rui Botica Santos (Portugal), president, Prof. Ulrich Haas (Germany) and Mr Andrew McDougall QC (France), will start its deliberations and prepare the Arbitral Award containing their decision. The decision is expected to be issued during the first half of July 2020. The exact date will be communicated in advance. The CAS arbitration concerns an appeal filed by Manchester City FC against the decision of the Adjudicatory Chamber of the UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) dated 14 February 2020 in which it was deemed to have contravened UEFA’s Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations and sanctioned with exclusion from participation in UEFA club competitions in the next two seasons and ordered to pay a fine of EUR 30 million.

Man City vs UEFA: CAS releases statement as hearing ends; verdict in July

Vincent Kompany has turned down an offer from Manchester City to become Pep Guardiola's assistant coach, according to various Belgian media reports on Friday.

The former City captain is under contract as player-manager of Anderlecht until 2022, having left the Etihad Stadium last year following a trophy-laden 11-year spell in England.

Kompany, who has never concealed his desire to one day be City manager, said he wanted to stay at Anderlecht.

On Thursday, Belgium's most successful club responded to recent financial difficulties as Wouter Vandenhaute took over from Marc Coucke as president.

Anderlecht finished only eighth in the Belgian league season, which was curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic, their worst post-war position.

City boss Guardiola has been looking for a new assistant since Mikel Arteta left Manchester to become Arsenal manager last December.

Kompany, 34, won four Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups with City and is widely regarded as one of the club's greatest ever players.

Vincent Kompany has turned down an offer from Manchester City to become Pep Guardiola's assistant coach, according to various Belgian media reports on Friday. The former City captain is under contract as player-manager of Anderlecht until 2022, having left the Etihad Stadium last year following a trophy-laden 11-year spell in England.

Vincent Kompany has turned down an offer from Manchester City to become Pep Guardiola's assistant coach, according to various Belgian media reports on Friday. The former City captain is under contract as player-manager of Anderlecht until 2022, having left the Etihad Stadium last year following a trophy-laden 11-year spell in England. Kompany, who has never concealed his desire to one day be City manager, said he wanted to stay at Anderlecht. On Thursday, Belgium's most successful club responded to recent financial difficulties as Wouter Vandenhaute took over from Marc Coucke as president. Anderlecht finished only eighth in the Belgian league season, which was curtailed by the coronavirus pandemic, their worst post-war position. City boss Guardiola has been looking for a new assistant since Mikel Arteta left Manchester to become Arsenal manager last December. Kompany, 34, won four Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups with City and is widely regarded as one of the club's greatest ever players.

Kompany turns down offer to be Guardiola's assistant: reports

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell.

Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys.

The eight men, who are now in their late 40s or early 50s, are all claiming damages against the Premier League club for the "very serious psychiatric injuries" they suffered as a result of the abuse.

Bennell is currently serving a 30-year jail term for multiple offences against 12 boys he coached, some of whom are bringing the High Court action, between 1979 and 1991.

Bennell, who is thought not to have received an official salary from City, had two three-year spells within the club's youth network between 1976 and 1984.

He then went on to work as Crewe's youth team coach for seven years.

The claimants argue that, while Bennell was not officially on City's "books", the club is still vicariously liable for the abuse.

All but one of the eight are claiming damages for "the loss of a chance to pursue a career as a footballer".

Two of the men are also bringing claims against Crewe, where Bennell was employed as a youth coach after leaving City.

Both City and Crewe deny that they are vicariously liable for the abuse committed.

City and Crewe also argue that the claims have been brought too late to be heard by the court, and dispute the extent to which the abuse is said to have caused the claimants financial or other losses.

Mrs Justice Lambert ordered that all eight claims be heard together at an eight-week trial which is provisionally listed to start in October 2021.

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell. Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys.

Manchester City will face a High Court trial over damages claims from eight men who were sexually abused by paedophile football coach Barry Bennell. Bennell's abuse took place while he is said to have been working for City as a scout and coach of their "feeder teams", which featured players too young to be signed as schoolboys. The eight men, who are now in their late 40s or early 50s, are all claiming damages against the Premier League club for the "very serious psychiatric injuries" they suffered as a result of the abuse. Bennell is currently serving a 30-year jail term for multiple offences against 12 boys he coached, some of whom are bringing the High Court action, between 1979 and 1991. Bennell, who is thought not to have received an official salary from City, had two three-year spells within the club's youth network between 1976 and 1984. He then went on to work as Crewe's youth team coach for seven years. The claimants argue that, while Bennell was not officially on City's "books", the club is still vicariously liable for the abuse. All but one of the eight are claiming damages for "the loss of a chance to pursue a career as a footballer". Two of the men are also bringing claims against Crewe, where Bennell was employed as a youth coach after leaving City. Both City and Crewe deny that they are vicariously liable for the abuse committed. City and Crewe also argue that the claims have been brought too late to be heard by the court, and dispute the extent to which the abuse is said to have caused the claimants financial or other losses. Mrs Justice Lambert ordered that all eight claims be heard together at an eight-week trial which is provisionally listed to start in October 2021.

Man City face damages claim in High Court over Bennell abuse

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus. <o:p></o:p>

Manchester City on Monday released a statement confirming the tragic news as they stated: “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old. Everyone associated with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.”

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The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old .
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1247162431467483136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<o:p>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-set-to-extend-2019-20-football-season-indefinitely-amid-covid-19-pandemic-290885" hreflang="en">FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

Guardiola has been one of the most active managers in spreading awareness surrounding the deadly COVID-19. The former Barcelona manager had earlier donated €1million to help provide medical equipment in the fight against COVID-19 in Spain. <o:p></o:p>

The former Spanish midfielder had vowed that everyone will come out of the situation surrounding the coronavirus stronger while urging people to follow the advisory by the medical experts and government.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<o:p></o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transfer-fees-will-decrease-due-to-covid-19-bayern-munich-president-herbert-hainer-290882" hreflang="en">'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer</a>

"We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," Guardiola had said in a video.<o:p></o:p>

"You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We’ll come back from this stronger, better, kinder…and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe,” he added.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, with football season around the world suspended indefinitely, players and managers have been restricted to online coaching with limited training (only indoors).<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus.

Mother of current Manchester City manager and former Spain international, Pep Guardiola breathed her last on Monday after contracting COVID-19 virus. Dolors Sala Carrio, aged 82, on Monday passed away in Manresa, Barcelona after she was diagnosed with the dreaded coronavirus. Manchester City on Monday released a statement confirming the tragic news as they stated: “The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old. Everyone associated with the club sends their most heartfelt sympathy at this most distressing time to Pep, his family and all their friends.” The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona after contracting Corona Virus. She was 82-years-old . — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 6, 2020 × ALSO READ: FIFA set to extend 2019-20 football season indefinitely amid COVID-19 pandemic Guardiola has been one of the most active managers in spreading awareness surrounding the deadly COVID-19. The former Barcelona manager had earlier donated €1million to help provide medical equipment in the fight against COVID-19 in Spain. The former Spanish midfielder had vowed that everyone will come out of the situation surrounding the coronavirus stronger while urging people to follow the advisory by the medical experts and government. ALSO READ: 'Transfer fees will decrease due to COVID-19': Bayern Munich president Herbert Hainer "We miss football. We miss the life that we had a few days ago but now is the time to listen, to follow our scientists, doctors and nurses," Guardiola had said in a video. "You are my football family and we are going to do everything possible to make you feel better. We’ll come back from this stronger, better, kinder…and a little bit fatter. Stay inside, stay safe,” he added. Meanwhile, with football season around the world suspended indefinitely, players and managers have been restricted to online coaching with limited training (only indoors).

Man City boss Pep Guardiola's mother dies after contracting COVID-19; clubs issues statement

French defender Aymeric Laporte has urged his Manchester City teammates to keep up their home training routines during their self-isolation -- but admits he cannot stop thinking about the club's possible exclusion from the Champions League.

The 25-year-old is presently recovering from a hamstring problem, the latest in a litany of injuries that has limited him to eight appearances this season.

City's players have had to stay at home and been given training plans since the reigning Premier League champions closed the training ground following British government advice on Monday to avoid all non-essential travel and contact.

"That's (personal training schedule) the best thing for everyone, that we do it every day," Laporte said, quoted in The Times on Friday.

"They trust in you and you have to be professional. You have to follow what they say and we have to be responsible in this case.

"When we return to normality, when we start training again outside, we have to be ready."

Premier League chiefs on Thursday fixed a planned resumption of domestic football for April 30. Britain has only just begun to take the same restrictive measures as other European countries to fight the pandemic.

Laporte said City players had been advised to adhere to the guidance on avoiding social contact.&nbsp;

"We have the same protocol as has been given out in all countries: stay at home as much as possible, don't go out in the street, don't shake hands with anyone," said Laporte.

"If you go to the supermarket and you see someone you know, say hello to them, but don't shake their hands or get close to them."

Laporte said he was worried about City's ban from European football for two years for breaching financial fairplay rules, although the club has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

“We are waiting for a final decision," said Laporte "We are going to see what happens next season.

"Obviously it would hurt us a lot if we aren't in the Champions League next season.

"I am very happy here at Manchester City. I am enjoying my football here. We are doing great things here. In the last two years we have won eight trophies."

French defender Aymeric Laporte has urged his Manchester City teammates to keep up their home training routines during their self-isolation -- but admits he cannot stop thinking about the club's possible exclusion from the Champions League.

French defender Aymeric Laporte has urged his Manchester City teammates to keep up their home training routines during their self-isolation -- but admits he cannot stop thinking about the club's possible exclusion from the Champions League. The 25-year-old is presently recovering from a hamstring problem, the latest in a litany of injuries that has limited him to eight appearances this season. City's players have had to stay at home and been given training plans since the reigning Premier League champions closed the training ground following British government advice on Monday to avoid all non-essential travel and contact. "That's (personal training schedule) the best thing for everyone, that we do it every day," Laporte said, quoted in The Times on Friday. "They trust in you and you have to be professional. You have to follow what they say and we have to be responsible in this case. "When we return to normality, when we start training again outside, we have to be ready." Premier League chiefs on Thursday fixed a planned resumption of domestic football for April 30. Britain has only just begun to take the same restrictive measures as other European countries to fight the pandemic. Laporte said City players had been advised to adhere to the guidance on avoiding social contact. "We have the same protocol as has been given out in all countries: stay at home as much as possible, don't go out in the street, don't shake hands with anyone," said Laporte. "If you go to the supermarket and you see someone you know, say hello to them, but don't shake their hands or get close to them." Laporte said he was worried about City's ban from European football for two years for breaching financial fairplay rules, although the club has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). “We are waiting for a final decision," said Laporte "We are going to see what happens next season. "Obviously it would hurt us a lot if we aren't in the Champions League next season. "I am very happy here at Manchester City. I am enjoying my football here. We are doing great things here. In the last two years we have won eight trophies."

Home comforts no excuse for slacking off, says Man City's Aymeric Laporte

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