Tuchel on Wembley blunders: did Man City charges bite?

England’s 3-2 loss to Spain at Wembley was ultimately decided by uncharacteristic mistakes from players with Manchester City links: Marc Guehi and Nico O’Reilly contributed to Spain’s goals, while Rodri conceded a penalty. It happened just a day after Manchester City were found guilty over Premier League financial rules.

As BBC Sport reports, the case follows a four-year investigation covering the period between 2009 and 2018. City were accused of inflating sponsorship revenue and making other “off the books” payments to get around the rules. Sanctions are still pending, but could include a points deduction, expulsion from the league or a major fine.

The distraction question

England boss Thomas Tuchel said after the defeat that it wasn’t a factor “for me”, but added he could imagine it being talked about among the Manchester City players. Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane said top-level football demands focus and that the verdict news could have weighed on them. England captain Harry Kane played down any link, telling ITV Sport: “There was a discussion… but when we’re with England we put club football to one side.”