Emery says clubs inflated budgets as City appeals ruling

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery said many clubs had inflated their budgets as Manchester City appeals a Premier League commission’s findings that it breached financial rules in 114 of 115 charges. The case remains unresolved, and City has denied wrongdoing. Speaking to Spanish media, Emery described the financial restrictions clubs face, including the need to sell players and structure contracts to comply with rules. He said financial regulations are intended to keep spending in balance with revenue and prevent inflation, then added that many clubs had inflated their budgets. He did not name any clubs or provide evidence for that broader assertion in the remarks reported. Emery said the courts and relevant authorities should decide City’s case. He also expressed sympathy for the team’s performances under manager Pep Guardiola, saying there were periods when the side was difficult to match. A Premier League commission found City guilty of 114 of 115 charges, according to reports. The findings concern alleged financial-rule breaches over several seasons, including claims about commercial agreements and the reporting of funding.