Herrera demands historic punishment for Manchester City over financial breaches

Former Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera, currently playing for Real Zaragoza, has launched a scathing attack on Manchester City. The 37-year-old discussed the independent commission's decision that found the club guilty of 114 out of 115 financial charges related to the 2009–2018 period.

Herrera, who played at Old Trafford from 2014 to 2019, claimed that the club's financial malpractice effectively robbed him of a Premier League title. He recalled the 2017/18 season, where United finished second under Jose Mourinho, and praised the manager's foresight in suggesting that things were not right behind the scenes at their rivals.

"I would have won the Premier League title. It really changes the picture of your career when you have a Premier League title under your belt," said Ander Herrera.

The Spaniard insisted that the punishment for the club must be monumental to set a precedent and deter others from similar financial misconduct. He echoed Wayne Rooney's calls for a severe verdict, noting that the damage inflicted on clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, who missed out on the Champions League due to these issues, is irreparable.

Manchester City filed an appeal against the guilt verdict on October 1, 2026. According to Premier League regulations, the appeal board must hold hearings by December 24, 2026, with a final verdict expected in January 2027. Specific sanctions, which could include points deductions or relegation, are set to be finalized by May 31, 2027.