Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola believes the lack of clarity surrounding Manchester City's future after the club was found to have breached multiple financial regulations is creating uncertainty across the Premier League.
Man City continues to insist it did nothing wrong and has appealed the ruling by an independent commission that was published last week. The Premier League leaders could face a severe points deduction that would threaten their place in England's top flight.
Iraola said the world's richest league is now in a state of limbo until a final outcome is reached.
"I think the worst thing is probably the uncertainty, when nobody knows what is going to happen," the Spaniard said ahead of City's first match since the ruling, against Liverpool on Sunday.
"But we have to focus on Liverpool – being the best club we can be, the best team we can be, and that is my challenge."
Iraola only joined Liverpool in June but is relishing the prospect of a raucous home atmosphere.
"The atmosphere is going to be big, especially at Anfield," he said. "We also want to give our fans a reason to stay with us. When they see the team they want to see on the pitch, we can create an even better atmosphere and we will work for that."
Liverpool are still unbeaten under Iraola, but three draws in their opening five matches leave them six points off top spot going into the weekend.
Iraola's attacking options are limited after Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo picked up injuries on international duty.
"As a club manager, you always wait until the match is over, hoping the doctor doesn't call you, doesn't bring bad news, but in this case we were unlucky with both Alex and Cody," he said. "They are injured and will not be involved on Sunday."
