Man City Block Haaland Questions on Financial Case

Manchester City have reportedly stopped Erling Haaland from being asked about the club's legal fight with the Premier League, according to the broadcaster Viaplay.

Haaland was due to give a rare interview ahead of Sunday's trip to Liverpool, but questions about the verdict were off limits. 

Viaplay sports director Kristian Oma told Norwegian outlet VG that the broadcaster told both the Premier League studios and City in advance that it wanted to raise the topic. The request was turned down. Oma said no Premier League club allowed questions on the matter before this weekend's games.

City were found guilty of 114 breaches of the league's financial rules by an independent commission. The club have appealed, so the outcome is still open.

Haaland spoke separately and stuck to the football, asking for unity. "I think they are gonna have a good time. We have to stick together, we have to stay with each other, and we have to stay positive," he said of the fans heading to Anfield. 

He added: "No matter what happens in life, we always have to have a smile. We have to stay positive, look ahead and try to win football games and try to enjoy the situation and win the game. We have to stick together, and we have to spread the love to each other. So yeah, stick together, enjoy the ride and smile."

Manager Enzo Maresca dealt with the subject at his Friday press conference and said he fully backs the club. "I understand the reason why most of you are here. The only thing I can say is there is a process ongoing and in this moment I completely trust the club," he said.

He went on: "I trust the club because I trust the people. It's the reason I joined the club. There is not another club in the world I would like to be at. I am happy and proud to be here."

The legal row adds more spice to an already fierce rivalry with Liverpool. City will now try to keep their minds on the pitch and take three points at Anfield.