Jose Mourinho has aimed a pointed comment at Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, claiming he won his Premier League titles “fairly” and not by “dealing with 150 lawsuits.”

The Fenerbahce manager made the remark following a gesture from Guardiola after City’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool at Anfield.
During the match, Guardiola held up six fingers to City fans, symbolising his six Premier League titles.

This echoed a famous moment from Mourinho, who held up three fingers to jeering Manchester United supporters to remind them of his success despite a difficult period at the club.

Guardiola responded to a question about Mourinho’s gesture, stating, “I hope not in my case… He won three, I won six, but we are the same like that.”

He added that the gesture was simply to highlight their extraordinary achievements and to show fans how exceptional the club is, with a desire to extend his time at City as long as possible.

Although Guardiola’s comments didn’t seem like a direct jab at Mourinho, the Portuguese manager decided to respond. “Guardiola said something to me yesterday,” Mourinho said.

“He won six trophies and I won three, but I won fairly and cleanly. If I lost, I would congratulate my opponent because he was better than me. I don’t want to win by dealing with 150 lawsuits.”

Mourinho was referring to the 115 charges Manchester City faces for alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play (FFP).

These charges were brought by the Premier League in February 2023, but fans have been frustrated by the lack of resolution and punishment.

City’s FFP violations span from 2009 to 2018, and the club is accused of failing to provide accurate financial information and reports regarding player and manager compensation, among other breaches.

The case is still under investigation, and a verdict is not expected until well after the current season.

If found guilty, Manchester City could face severe penalties, including significant points deductions or even relegation from the Premier League.