The former City boss, wearing a flat cap, took a seat in the directors’ box as his old side hosted holders Paris St Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday.

It was a strong show of support from the Spaniard for the club, who were found guilty of more than 100 charges of breaching Premier League regulations last month.

Guardiola, who stood down in the summer after a 10-year spell in which he won 20 trophies, had said he would stand by the club after the verdict was delivered.

A statement from the 55-year-old read: “I want every single @ManCity fan to know I am here; more than ever. I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo and you, our unique supporters. Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.”

It was Guardiola’s first return to the stadium – where there is now a stand named after him – since he left at the end of last season, although he has remained connected as a global ambassador for the over-arching City Football Group.

Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak was also in attendance along with chief executive Ferran Soriano.

Guardiola reportedly held talks with both earlier in the day as City looked to put on a united front.

City have appealed against the verdict from an independent commission and maintained they have “irrefutable” evidence to back their case.

Guardiola’s successes with City included six Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, three FA Cups and five League Cups.