Paris St-Germain manager Luis Enrique says Manchester City’s financial-rule verdict came as a surprise to him, adding that he hopes the club will not face punishment.
City welcome European champions PSG in the Champions League on Wednesday at 20:00 BST, in their first home fixture since being found responsible for most of the 115 alleged breaches.
Speaking at a news conference at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, Enrique said major clubs such as Manchester City frequently attract significant attention and speculation.
He said everyone must wait for the final outcome, while expressing hope that the matter ends positively for City. He also praised their remarkable performances in recent years and said their achievements on the field were fully deserved.
Enrique added that no conclusions should be drawn until the relevant authorities or judge deliver a final ruling.
An independent commission concluded that City violated regulations over nine years from 2009 to 2018, using artificial agreements with commercial partners to channel more than £830m into their football activities.
City deny any wrongdoing and have lodged an appeal against the decision.
Enrique said his initial reaction was one of surprise, but stressed that the legal process must be respected and that everyone should await its conclusion.
He noted that the responsible authorities must determine the outcome. From a sporting perspective, however, he believes City earned their honours and said he greatly admires their style of play.
He maintained that trophies secured through performances on the field retain their sporting value, adding that he hopes City escape sanctions while acknowledging that the final decision is still pending.
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