Gary Neville suggests Premier League verdict is impacting Manchester City's form

Manchester City's recent struggles have prompted former defender Gary Neville to suggest that the club's ongoing legal issues are beginning to affect the squad. After a strong start to the season where they won their first seven matches, the team has suffered three consecutive defeats against Aston Villa, Brighton, and Nottingham Forest.

A cloud over the Etihad

The Premier League confirmed in late September that City were found guilty of serious financial rule breaches covering a nine-year period. While the club intends to challenge the verdict, speculation regarding potential punishments—such as points deductions or relegation—has intensified.

"Something's just not right at the moment and it's worrying. Things point towards the obvious cloud hanging over the club."

Gary Neville

Neville noted that players are likely facing constant questions about their future, which can create both physical and mental fatigue. He emphasized that while the team must improve tactically, the weight of negative publicity cannot be overlooked as a factor in their current dip in form.

"I do believe it will be having some impact, just because of the weight of what's been hitting them, from a publicity point of view."

Gary Neville

Manager Enzo Maresca now faces the pressure of turning the situation around during the international break. City currently sit third in the table, trailing leaders Arsenal by six points.