I also think City know they've got a points deduction incoming. I don't think many properly elite managers would take the job in that knowledge.
Who are the elite managers nowadays? Maybe Luis Enrique and Flick? Maybe Tuchel? There certainly aren’t that many. Then you have what I would say are system managers and unproven types.
Man City’s signings now make more sense when you know Guardiola is leaving. Been a bit confusing watching his team this season.
Ancelotti definitely. Maybe Zidane. Both are more managers of elite talent rather than amazing strategists or innovators, though. I'd like to see Emery get another shot at a big club. His track record at second tier clubs is outstanding. Will be interesting to see if Mourinho can still do something at Madrid, or if he's yesterday's man.
I assume this is subject to a potential appeal, but it's still massive news An Independent Disciplinary Commission has today expelled Southampton from the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs after the Club admitted to multiple breaches of EFL Regulations related to the unauthorised filming of other Clubs’ training.In addition, the Club has received a… pic.twitter.com/VxyXFk48BA— EFL Communications (@EFL_Comms) May 19, 2026
I'd imagine Tonda Eckert gets a lengthy ban as there are multiple instances and reports that the evidence included a text message trail involving him.
I am surprised no other clubs have had allegations coming out. Normally when one things or person is exposed for something other unconnected stories on the same theme emerge as well.
I think you can say with some certainty that they will have done this with other teams as well - these are just the instances for which there are evidence. I wouldnt be surprised if they face more charges going forwards if teams find evidence. If you were going to pick just three team to spy on then you can understand Ipswich and Boro, but Oxford?
Looks like they have admitted to doing it on a game they lost (Oxford) and two games they drew Probably setting up the appeal that they didn't benefit
Yeah, I heard there were a number of other clubs concerned it had happened but they didn't have anything to prove it (Derby being one). They obviously had CCTV footage or something similar from Oxford and Ipswich, hence why those charges were turned around so quickly.
I think the best they can hope for is a reduction in the points deduction. The rules don't specify that an advantage had to be gained, and you can't give a points deduction for a playoff game as it is a separate competition from the league.