Guardiola set to return to Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain Champions League clash

Pep Guardiola is set to return to Manchester City just months after leaving the club, with reports suggesting he plans to attend their UEFA Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain at the Etihad Stadium on 14 October.

The former Manchester City manager is expected to watch the game from the stands rather than the touchline, according to French website Foot Mercato, citing The Express.

Guardiola’s reported return comes at a sensitive time for his former club, which is dealing with the consequences of a financial regulations case. Manchester City was recently found guilty of 114 breaches of Premier League financial rules.

The club has lodged a formal appeal against the ruling, arguing that the judgment contained “clear and major errors” in law, principle and fact.

Despite the ongoing dispute, Guardiola has reportedly chosen to show his support for Manchester City by attending the fixture. The match will mark his first visit to the Etihad Stadium since ending his spell in charge.

Guardiola left Manchester City after almost 10 seasons as manager, during which he established himself as one of the most significant figures in the club’s history. His return for the meeting with Paris Saint-Germain will therefore carry particular significance, although he will be present as a spectator rather than a member of the coaching staff.

The fixture has added importance for Manchester City because of the timing of the financial case and the club’s appeal. Guardiola’s decision to attend also represents his first return to the stadium since departing, according to the reports.