Several Premier League clubs have reportedly expressed concern over comments made by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham following Manchester City’s guilty verdict in the league’s financial rules case.
Senior figures at some clubs were reportedly surprised by Burnham’s remarks, particularly after he told the BBC that he would be “really concerned” if Manchester City’s owners decided to sell the club.
Burnham praised the investment made by City Football Group and its Abu Dhabi-based ownership in Manchester, describing the group as an important partner in the development of the city.
However, his comments have raised questions among some Premier League clubs about whether they could create the perception of political interference in an independent football disciplinary process.
Manchester City was found guilty by an independent commission of serious breaches of Premier League financial regulations covering a nine-season period. The commission also found multiple breaches relating to the club’s failure to cooperate with the league’s investigation.
City has denied wrongdoing and has appealed the commission’s findings. A separate independent appeal board will consider the club’s challenge, while a sanctions hearing is still to take place.
Following the backlash, Downing Street clarified that Burnham believes no one should be above the rules and that the independent process must be allowed to run its course.
The controversy has also brought renewed attention to Burnham’s previous relationship with Manchester City’s ownership during his time as mayor of Greater Manchester. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has called for details of meetings between the prime minister and senior figures connected to the club to be released.
Despite the concerns raised by some club officials, the appeal process remains independent, with Manchester City continuing its challenge against the verdict.
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