Tony Pulis demands 2011 FA Cup trophy be returned

Tony Pulis says his Stoke City team was 'cheated' out of the 2011 FA Cup final after Manchester City were found guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules.

Tony Pulis has demanded Manchester City return the 2011 FA Cup trophy, claiming his Stoke City side were cheated out of victory. The former Stoke manager's comments follow the club's guilty verdict on over 100 charges of breaching Premier League financial rules between 2009 and 2018.

Pulis wrote that the situation leaves a very sour taste and that Stoke supporters will demand the trophy be passed over. He does not expect the winners' medals to be returned but framed the call as a matter of justice for fans who feel wronged. The 68-year-old stated that City collected titles and dominated English football after breaking financial rules, a period that saw them climb the standings consistently.

Historical context of the 2011 FA Cup final

Manchester City won that final 1-0 against Stoke City, with Yaya Touré scoring the decisive goal. It marked the club's first major trophy under the ownership of the Abu Dhabi United Group. For Stoke, it was their first opportunity to win a significant trophy since 1972. Pulis was in charge at the Bet365 Stadium for that defeat at Wembley, a match that featured in the long-term stats of players from both sides.

Ongoing Premier League financial case

The Premier League charges, laid in February 2023, included allegations of failing to provide accurate financial information and breaching sustainability rules. A hearing took place behind closed doors last year. Manchester City have consistently denied any wrongdoing and are expected to appeal the verdict. Potential punishments could include a points deduction or a substantial fine, with some external calls for titles to be stripped.

In response to the criticism, club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has expressed confidence in proving the club's innocence. He insisted the club's position remains unchanged from their initial 2023 statement and that they have respected the due process.

The off-field controversy contrasts sharply with Manchester City's current form. They sit first in the Premier League with 15 points from five games, having won all five matches. Their next challenge is a trip to face Liverpool at Anfield on 11 October, a key fixture in their fixtures list. The team's performances, built by a deep and talented squad, have seen them average over 60 minutes of possession per game this season while conceding the fewest goal minutes in the league, a defensive solidity they will need against their rivals.