Manchester City, Premier League clubs and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham
8 October 2026
Several Premier League clubs have expressed concern about possible political interference in Manchester City’s appeal following comments by Prime Minister Andy Burnham praising the club’s Abu Dhabi ownership and expressing concern about its potential departure.
Club executives questioned whether Burnham’s remarks could influence perceptions of the independent process. Downing Street subsequently stressed that nobody is above the rules. City’s appeal will be heard by a separate independent board, with potential sanctions still undecided.