Pep Guardiola has admitted he is uncertain whether the ongoing wait for a verdict on the 130 charges Manchester City face will affect the club’s ability to operate in the transfer market.
However, he revealed that a decision could be made as soon as February.
The reigning champions are facing allegations of breaching the Premier League’s Financial Fair Play rules.
An independent commission is now considering its verdict after final arguments were presented earlier this month at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in London.
A decision is expected in 2025.
Against this backdrop, City are enduring their worst-ever Premier League form under Guardiola.
They currently sit fifth in the table, having lost eight of their last 11 games.
A hearing launched in September was expected to last between 10 to 12 weeks.
With key midfielder Rodri potentially sidelined for the rest of the season and a series of defensive injuries, City have been weighing up the prospect of entering the transfer market.
However, the uncertainty surrounding the potential punishment they could face may influence any player considering a move.
“I don’t know,” said Pep Guardiola when asked if the charges could impact the club’s business.
“It’s going to happen in winter time.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen.
“I know the people are expecting that but I don’t know. In February, March, [maybe] will be the sentence.”
Speaking ahead of the match against Aston Villa, Guardiola expressed confidence in his current squad, emphasizing that any decisions regarding transfers will be made by the club.
For now, his primary focus is on getting his injured players back to full fitness.
“What I want is my players back. I have the same feeling that the squad is really good, it’s not about good or bad players but I want the players back,” Pep Guardiola said on Friday.
“What happens in winter [in the January transfer window] or the end of the season, the club will decide what is best for the team.
“I try to be honest about the feelings of my teams.
“We fell down six times [number of Premier League games without a win], we have to stand up seven.
“There is no alternative.
“I’m fine. I’m a normal person with feelings like all of us.
“When the situation is going well we are better but it’s normal.
“I would not go to the press conference if we were 1-0 up and expressing something that I didn’t feel.”
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