Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is delighted for his players after their successful appeal against a two season UEFA ban.

There had been fears that stars such as Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva would seek an exit if the two-year ban was upheld.

"I am incredibly happy for them," Guardiola said. "They are the reason why we are in the Champions League next season because of what they have done on the pitch.

"Off the pitch, maybe, other clubs are better, but on the pitch we were quite good the last three or four years, and we will defend what we won on the pitch next season in Europe."

City return to Premier League action on Wednesday when they host Bournemouth.