Jose Mourinho has reignited his rivalry with Pep Guardiola, claiming his own success was achieved ‘fairly and cleanly’.
The comments came after Guardiola raised six fingers at Liverpool fans during Manchester City’s 2-0 defeat at Anfield, a gesture highlighting his six Premier League titles.
The action mirrored Mourinho’s infamous three-finger salute while at Manchester United in 2018, signifying his trio of league triumphs.
Mourinho’s tenure at Old Trafford ended months later, prompting questions about Guardiola’s own future after City’s recent slump. Guardiola dismissed the speculation.
“I hope not in my case,” he said. “He won three, I won six, but we are the same in these situations.”
Mourinho, now managing Fenerbahce, responded sharply, taking a veiled swipe at City’s ongoing financial controversy.
“Guardiola said something to me,” Mourinho said. “He won six trophies, I won three, but I won fairly and cleanly.
“If I lose, I congratulate my opponent because they were better. I don’t want to win by dealing with 150 lawsuits.”
The Portuguese coach was alluding to the 115 charges Man City face for alleged financial breaches between 2009 and 2018.
These accusations stem from the club’s failure to provide accurate financial information and the alleged overstating of sponsorship revenues.
The independent hearing into these breaches, which began in September, is nearing its conclusion.
Closing arguments are underway, but a final verdict isn’t expected until spring 2025. Potential penalties for City include fines, points deductions, or even relegation.
Guardiola has consistently defended City against the allegations, maintaining that the club’s accomplishments on the pitch are legitimate.
However, the ongoing legal battle has provided ammunition for critics, who are quick to question the integrity of City’s dominance under Guardiola.
As the hearing edges closer to a conclusion, the feud between these two iconic managers serves as a sharp reminder of the scrutiny and pressure that come with modern football’s highest honours.
For Guardiola, the legal shadow over City adds another layer of complexity to an already turbulent season.
