Expert reveals if Man City's underperforming players are 'distracted' by 114 charges guilt

Former scout Mick Brown suggests Man City players could be distracted by the club's 114 financial charges, though he believes form dip is unlikely to be primarily caused by the ongoing appeal process.

Manchester City's recent poor results — including a 1-0 loss to Brighton and a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa — have sparked questions about whether the club's 114 financial charges are affecting player focus. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that while distraction is possible, it is unlikely to be the main factor behind the dip in form. "So as soon as results and performances start to dip on the pitch, you start to question, could they be distracted? Could they be worried?" Brown said. "I don't think the charges will be a major issue, everybody is just waiting for the appeal and then we'll see what's going to happen, but it will keep lingering in the background."

Brown noted that City remain a competitive side despite the noise surrounding their appeal, which is not expected to conclude until the new year. Players including Erling Haaland have publicly stated they will focus on performances, though concerns may be creeping in as results deteriorate.