Widespread Delusion: Are Man City’s 115 Charges Being Applified By Social Media?

In today’s attention economy, even the smallest details can become magnified through the lens of social media. The faceless voice of an X account, one associated with Manchester City’s inferior rivals United, can be astonishingly loud – with some getting over 2 million hits.

Some Linked Man City’s Kitman Departing To Their Financial Trial

Manchester City’s long serving kitman, Brandon Ashton announced his departure from the club recently. Ashton is a popular figure amongst players and football fans but said on Instagram: “I feel it is the right time to start a new chapter.” 

Somehow, this innocent departure (with all due respect) is an obviously disconnected figure in terms of the finances and big decisions of the club. But was still linked to the start of City’s court case against the Premier League which started on the same day.

There were many similar posts made across social media, exemplifying the sheer delusion among rival fans.

Guardiola Saying City Have Already Been Condemned

This relates to Pep Guardiola’s initial thoughts on the charges and the media discourse. Pep, known for his eloquence and often unapologetic defence of his team, made a striking statement when the charges were first brought upon City:

“It feels like we’ve already been condemned before any trial has even taken place.”

Guardiola’s initial comments reflect his frustration with what he perceived as a presumption of guilt. His assertion highlights a broader sentiment within the club that the charges have tainted their reputation beyond repair, irrespective of the outcome of any legal or regulatory process.

Guardiola echoes the sentiment of disillusionment prevalent among Manchester City supporters and some figures within the footballing community. Those connected with City, on a whole, feel that the club is being judged prematurely, with many feeling that those judging City are also ill-informed.

Is Man City’s Guilt Being Driven By Speculation Over Facts?

During coverage on Sky and CBS, pundits such as Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville have never gone as far as saying City are guilty, but do repeatedly reference the 115 charges that hang over the Premier League champions. Some may see this as fair given the uncertainty of what is a huge talking point.

However, the reaction of the wider football world, across particularly social media, tells a different story. Many fans and commentators have already implied City’s guilt, driven by speculation rather than facts.

Guardiola’s initial frustration points to a broader issue: the potential for irreversible reputational damage. Even if Manchester City were to be found not guilty, the pervasive sense of guilt, which has been fuelled by ongoing media narratives and social media buzz, might persist.

The general public’s perception could remain skewed, overshadowing any official verdict and leaving a lasting stain on the club’s reputation.

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