Following Friday's UEFA bombshell, handing Manchester City a fine and, significantly more importantly, banning them from European competitions for two years, reports now suggest that pressure was put on the governing body the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

City accuse Europe's elite of UEFA pressure

In an article written by Matt Slater for the Athletic, City sources claim the Spanish and German giants, along with what have been referenced as "the English clubs", pressurised UEFA into putting these sanctions on the reigning Premier League champions. Apparently Paris Saint-Germain were also part of this group, a team who have also been questioned for their financial dealings under the rules of FFP, narrowly avoiding punishment themselves. As yet there has been no other confirmation or denial of these claims.

Although there are many criticisms pointed in the direction of FFP, Slater is quick to point out that Man City had no objection to the rules when they were being created. He also reminds us that the European Commission agreed with them and that they, to date, have proved sound.

Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan waves from the stands. Nigel French - EMPICS (PA Images via Getty Images)

One of the concerns being raised in light of the current situation, is that where other clubs have significant debt built up - look down the road at Old Trafford as a perfect example - Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's club is debt free. Clearly the state-owned organisations feel like they've been able to throw as much money as they've wanted at it to ensure success.

Manager Pep Guardiola has called for a "shutdown" following the decision, and the appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport is underway.

Read the full article by Matt Slater here.