Former Brazil striker Ronaldo says the 'rules are there to be respected' when asked about Manchester City's two-year ban from UEFA competition.
City were banned from Europe and handed a fine by UEFA for 'serious breaches' of Financial Fair Play regulations. The club have always maintained their innocence and had their appeal heard by the Court of Arbitration for Sport earlier this month.
If the ban is upheld, City could face the prospect of losing their best players if they were to leave in search of Champions League football. Manager Pep Guardiola, who has always said he trusts the club in their appeal, is out of contract next summer and City's chances of keeping him for longer could hinge on the result of their appeal.
Guardiola's future was put to legendary striker Ronaldo, who was speaking at a Santander Champions League event in Spain, when the former Real Madrid forward made his warning to the club.
“Who am I to know what Pep’s future will be?" Ronaldo said.
"But the rules are there to be respected - that’s all I can say about that."
Ronaldo was also asked about City's Champions League last-16 tie against Real Madrid, with the Blues holding a 2-1 lead from the first leg at the Bernabeu.
In what could be seen as another warning to City, Ronaldo explained how Real are not out of the tie just yet.
He said: “For now, City have a commitment with Real Madrid – it will be a very tough match. Nothing yet has been decided, of course. I think the match is still open. It will be a fantastic game.”
