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The Daily · Friday, 2 October 2026

Manchester City Found Guilty on All Charges in Historic Premier League Verdict

The day belonged, unambiguously, to Manchester City. The Premier League's independent commission returned a guilty verdict on all financial charges brought against the club — a ruling that stands as one of the most consequential disciplinary outcomes in the history of English football. Debate immediately turned to what punishment could follow, with points deductions, fines, and structural reform of club ownership all entering the conversation. The scale of what comes next is still unknown, but the verdict itself will not be forgotten.

The story came with an unsettling postscript. The Portuguese hacker whose leaked documents set the entire case in motion is reportedly set to lose his witness protection, despite fears for his safety. And across the England camp, Thomas Tuchel confirmed that City's international players have been visibly affected, describing it as a dominant topic of conversation ahead of their Nations League fixture against Croatia.

Elsewhere, football continued in quieter registers. Zinedine Zidane's first home match as France manager ended in a 1-1 draw with Italy after Dayot Upamecano's red card handed the visitors a foothold. Germany beat Serbia 2-0 with Tom Bischof catching the eye, while Lionel Messi arrived back in Argentina ahead of a farewell appearance with the national team — a moment that carries its own weight.

The record

Manchester City Found Guilty on All Premier League Financial Charges

Manchester City have been found guilty of all financial charges brought against them by the Premier League. The verdict has prompted widespread reaction, with debate now turning to what an appropriate punishment might look like and whether the case could drive change in club ownership models. A guilty verdict on all charges against Manchester City is one of the most significant disciplinary outcomes in Premier League history, with the punishment yet to be determined.

Messi Returns to Argentina Ahead of National Team Farewell Match

Lionel Messi has arrived in Argentina ahead of a farewell match with the national team. The appearance will mark a significant moment in the career of one of football's all-time greats, bringing his international chapter to a close on home soil. Messi's farewell caps one of the most celebrated international careers in football history, drawing a line under Argentina's golden generation.

Sir Alex Ferguson Admits He Was 'Terrified' to Return to Old Trafford After Brain Haemorrhage

Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken openly about the fear he felt returning to Old Trafford following a brain haemorrhage, describing the experience as 'terrifying'. The former Manchester United manager's admission offers a rare personal insight into his recovery from a serious medical episode.

Bilic Returns as Croatia Manager Ahead of England Test

Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia manager for a second time, replacing Zlatko Dalic. His return comes with an early test against England, giving the former West Ham coach an immediate chance to make his mark in the role.