Liverpool reportedly learned of Manchester City’s guilty verdict before the decision became publicly available, with the Premier League sending a confidential communication to the club’s executive level.
Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz in action against Manchester City during a Premier League match
According to Liverpool Echo journalist Paul Gorst, Liverpool first received the information last month through a communication from the Premier League. Access to the information reportedly required a non-disclosure agreement to be signed before the details could be viewed.
The development came after the Premier League’s independent Commission found manchester-city guilty of almost all of the financial-rule charges brought against the club relating to the 2009–2018 period. Manchester City have since appealed the decision, meaning the case remains ongoing.
Liverpool Staff Given Legal Guidance
Liverpool have reportedly taken a cautious approach to the situation because of the ongoing appeal. Gorst reports that members of staff received guidance from Liverpool’s legal department earlier this week concerning what could and could not be said publicly about the case.
The club’s approach reportedly extends to its official television channel, LFCTV, with presenters and staff understood to have been given instructions regarding what should and should not be discussed on air.
For Liverpool, publicly commenting on the matter while Manchester City’s appeal remains unresolved could potentially create unnecessary complications. As a result, the club has chosen to remain largely silent despite the significance of the verdict.
Liverpool’s Connection to the Case
The verdict carries particular significance for Liverpool because of the intense Premier League title battles between the two clubs over the past decade.
Liverpool finished second to Manchester City by two points in 2013/14 and later produced 97 and 92-point seasons under Jürgen Klopp, only to finish behind City with 98 and 93 points respectively.
Liverpool were also among four clubs that reserved the right in 2024 to pursue compensation if Manchester City were ultimately found guilty. Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Manchester United were the other clubs reported to have taken the same position.
Why Liverpool Are Staying Silent
Rather than celebrating publicly, the mood inside Liverpool has reportedly been one of relief following the verdict.
The club’s silence appears deliberate. With Manchester City appealing the Commission’s decision, Liverpool are understood to believe that making public comments about the case would not be helpful at this stage.
For now, Liverpool appear determined to let the legal process run its course.
The situation could still have major implications for English football, particularly if the verdict survives City’s appeal. Until that process is concluded, however, Liverpool’s approach is clear: say little, follow the legal process and let the facts speak for themselves.