Maresca says Manchester City fully trust club over charges as Liverpool clash approaches

Enzo Maresca says Manchester City have complete faith in the club’s management as it faces allegations relating to 115 charges brought against it.

Among those allegations, 35 concern an alleged failure to co-operate with investigations by the Premier League.

Speaking in comments reported by BBC Sport, the Italian said the atmosphere within the squad was positive ahead of their meeting with Liverpool.

“The atmosphere in the team is excellent before the Liverpool match,” Maresca said.

“The players are excited about the next two games, but that excitement comes from the fact we are top of the Premier League. That is the only thing they are focused on.”

Manchester City are preparing to face Liverpool at Anfield in the sixth round of the Premier League.

City lead the table with 15 points from their opening five matches, while Liverpool are sixth on nine points.

Maresca said the players were concentrating on the football rather than the allegations facing the club.

“The players understand that the only thing we can control is the football,” he added. “They are not worried at all about anything else. They know their profession well and understand there is noise around them, but they do not care about that noise.

“They have complete trust in the club, and I feel calm.”

He added: “Our only focus is on how to beat Liverpool at Anfield.”

What sanctions could Manchester City face?

The potential penalties available under Premier League regulations range from financial fines and points deductions to expulsion from the Premier League.

A points deduction could be applied retrospectively, which could raise the possibility of Manchester City being stripped of some of their previous titles.

Manchester City are expected to appeal the decision in the coming days.

The club has been accused by the English Football Association of failing to provide accurate financial information. The allegations also include breaches relating to payments made to players and coaches, as well as rules covering financial fair play and profitability and sustainability.

Manchester City have denied all the allegations against them and have insisted they are confident in their legal position.