LONDON: Several Premier League clubs have raised concerns about possible political interference in the Manchester City appeal after Prime Minister Andy Burnham commented on the verdict on the club’s financial misconduct.
Senior club officials questioned Burnham’s remarks about City’s Abu Dhabi-backed owners, fearing his intervention could undermine confidence in the independent proceedings.
An independent commission found Manchester City guilty of breaching Premier League financial rules following a 42-day hearing in 2024. However, the club denies wrongdoing and is challenging the verdict.
Burnham faced criticism after telling the BBC he would be “really concerned” if City’s owners decided to sell the club.
His remarks drew particular attention because he previously served as mayor of Greater Manchester. During that period, he supported investment from Gulf countries, including projects associated with City’s ownership.
Some rival club executives described his comments as inappropriate. Others questioned whether political pressure could affect the disciplinary process.
However, Burnham rejected suggestions that he had minimised the findings. Speaking on Thursday, he maintained that football regulations and wider investment interests should remain separate.
Read: Manchester City Transfer Spending Reached 46 Clubs
Downing Street later clarified that no one stands above football’s rules. It also stressed that the independent proceedings must continue without interference.
Meanwhile, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch demanded details of meetings between Burnham and senior Manchester City figures be released.
Read: Manchester City Charges: Panel Finds £900m Rule Breaches
The controversy has also drawn attention to the Independent Football Regulator and its position amid the dispute.
Despite the concerns, one club official suggested that growing scrutiny of Burnham could make actual interference unlikely.
A separate independent appeal board will consider Manchester City’s challenge. The commission has not yet determined sanctions.
