Premier League clubs fear political interference in Man City appeal

Some Premier League clubs were so "astonished" by comments made by Andy Burnham - appearing to downplay the verdict against Manchester City - that they are now "concerned" about political interference in the appeal process, sources have told BBC Sport. Senior club figures say they were shocked when they heard the prime minister tell the BBC he would be"really concerned" if Manchester City's owners decide to sell upafter the club werefound guilty of Premier League financial rule breaches.

They have questioned what his comments to the BBC were designed to achieve, and said it had put the Independent Football Regulator in a difficult position. Burnham is under increasing pressure surrounding his relationship with the club's Abu Dhabi ownership during his time as mayor of Greater Manchester.

Such is the level of scrutiny that Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has demanded that No 10 release all details of meetings between the prime minister and senior figures at the club. Despite clarification from Downing Street that Burnham's view is that no-one is "above the rules", his comments have sparked unease among some senior Labour figures who fear his initial comments have had major cut-through with voters.

Senior club sources have said they found the comments "absolutely bizarre", and that it was "at best naive and at worst quite manipulative, and that is not a good look". A different source said it was "clumsy", while another said they were surprised that the prime minister had "misspoken".

The entire process involving the charges against Manchester City is independent of the Premier League. An independent commission held a 42-day hearing in 2024 which led to the verdict announced last month, with a sanctions hearing still to come.

A separate independent appeal board will hear City's appeal. The club continues to deny any wrongdoing.

However, when asked about potential interference in the process off the back of Burnham's comments, one senior club source said: "Everyone would have a degree of concern. How much would depend on how much you read into that comment.

Because no-one is stupid around the table. We understand the geopolitics as well.

We understand the investment they have made in our country. I don't think anyone could doubt that or criticise that."