Downing Street clarifies PM's stance on Man City after backlash over 'above the rules' remarks

Key points

• Downing Street stated that PM Burnham emphasized the independent commission's findings are serious and that no one is above the rules.
• Burnham expressed concern that City's owners might sell the club, a remark criticized by Tories as 'out of touch' and 'extraordinary'.
• Manchester City has until Friday to submit an appeal, with sources suggesting they will argue sponsorship deals were funded by the Abu Dhabi government.
• The independent panel found City used 'sham contracts' to disguise over £830m in secret funding, with the Premier League stating the club 'systematically broke rules for nearly a decade'.
• Tories and Lib Dems accused Burnham of applying political pressure, while former City chairman David Bernstein urged politicians to stay away from the independent regulator's process.

Background

This follows an independent commission's guilty verdict on Manchester City for 115 charges related to financial rule breaches between 2009-10 and 2017-18. The club has denied wrongdoing and plans to appeal, with potential sanctions including fines or points deductions. Burnham, a former Greater Manchester mayor, has previously expressed concern about the club's owners leaving, citing their investment in the city.

How outlets are covering it

BBC reports that Downing Street clarified Burnham's position, stating he emphasized the independent process and that no one is above the rules. Tories, including shadow minister Louie French, criticized Burnham for 'publicly backing the owners' and applying political pressure. Lib Dem MP Anna Sabine argued that Burnham must remember he is PM for everyone, not just Manchester. Former City chairman David Bernstein urged politicians to stay away from the independent regulator's process. AP News and ESPN did not provide usable content due to access errors.

Why it matters

The controversy highlights the tension between political influence and independent regulatory processes in football. It raises questions about the impartiality of the Premier League's independent commission and the potential consequences for Manchester City, including financial penalties or expulsion. The case also has broader implications for the governance of football and the role of politicians in sports disputes.

What to watch

Manchester City has until Friday to submit an appeal. The independent panel will hold a sanctions hearing, which could take months to convene, to decide the punishment. The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has stated it will assess the suitability of owners, directors, and executives, taking account of the Premier League's findings.