Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca says his players remain in positive spirits despite the controversy surrounding the club's recent Premier League financial verdict.
City's international players returned to training on Thursday, nine days after an independent commission found the club guilty of serious breaches of the Premier League's financial regulations dating back to the 2009-10 season.
The commission found that City had used a number of “sham” commercial agreements as part of what it described as a disguised funding scheme, with the arrangements artificially inflating the club's reported revenue. City have rejected the findings and have lodged an appeal.
Maresca addressed the situation as his side prepared for Sunday's trip to Liverpool, insisting that the off-field developments had not disrupted the players' focus.
Asked about the mood inside the squad, the City boss said the players feel “fantastic” and remain focused on their football.
Maresca explained that the squad is aware of the controversy but believes there is little the players can do about matters outside their control. Their responsibility, he said, is to concentrate on their performances and upcoming matches.
City travel to Anfield sitting at the top of the Premier League and will face Liverpool in their first league match since the commission's verdict. The club currently leads Arsenal by three points.
The manager also said he personally remains calm and that there is complete trust between the players and the club's leadership.
City have consistently denied wrongdoing and formally lodged their appeal on October 1. In a statement confirming the appeal, the club said it believes the commission's opinion contains material errors of law, principle and fact and maintains that it has evidence supporting its position.
Erling Haaland has also called for unity around the club.
The Norwegian striker said he has developed a strong attachment to City after spending his first four seasons at the club and described himself as a supporter as well as a player.
Haaland urged everyone connected with City to remain together and positive, stressing the importance of concentrating on football while the appeal process continues.
Sunday's meeting with Liverpool therefore represents City's first major test on the pitch since the verdict was published.
Maresca insists his players are ready to respond through their performances, with the squad determined to keep its attention on winning matches while the club challenges the commission's findings away from the pitch.
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