Pep Guardiola's 115 charges dig and cheeky Liverpool jab send clear Man City message

Manchester City have come out firing on and off the pitch this season.

Saturday's ultimately comfortable victory over Ipswich Town made it two wins from two to kickstart the Premier League campaign. And, as City bid for a fifth successive top flight title and a tilt at regaining their Champions League crown, their early season form minus a clutch of key players is ominous.

It's a big year off the pitch as well, with a decision set to be reached on City's alleged 115 breaches of Premier League financial rules. The hearing is set to start in September, with a result possible before the end of the season.

ALSO READ: Guardiola confirms fresh Man City injury blow after Ipswich win

ALSO READ: Man City's £50m transfer decision as Liverpool spot Gundogan opportunity

Guardiola said on Friday that he was happy a resolution is on its way, and while any punishment if City are found guilty could taint the on-pitch success in the eyes of some, it won't colour the Etihad chief's view.

Writing in the City programme, Guardiola said: "The last time we were here we did something really special together. Four Premier League titles in a row guys. This is historic. We have enjoyed so many amazing days together and the final day of last season against West Ham is definitely one of them. The achievement is unique, nobody can take it away from us and we will have those memories forever."

City have adopted something of a siege mentality given the criticism thrown their way since the charges were first announced. It extends to football matters too.

A banner unfurled at the Etihad on Saturday displayed the message 'This means four' - a not so subtle reference at Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold's comments last season that he viewed