Downing Street: Manchester City Is Not Above the Rules — MyJoyOnline
In the United Kingdom, Downing Street said that football club Manchester City cannot be “above the rules” amid a case concerning violations of Premier League financial rules. The statement came after criticism of comments by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who said he would be “very concerned” if the club’s owners decided to sell it, MyJoyOnline reports.
Downing Street’s position
The Prime Minister’s Office stressed that the independent commission’s initial decision is serious, so there can be no question of anyone being above the rules. A Downing Street spokesperson also noted that the process remains independent and must be concluded without outside interference, and that its outcome should be respected. If violations are established, those responsible must face appropriate consequences.
The independent commission found Manchester City guilty of most of the 115 charges brought against it. The Premier League said the club had systematically breached its rules for almost ten years. Among the commission’s findings were claims of fictitious contracts with a number of commercial partners, which, according to the commission, were used to conceal secret funding of more than £830 million.
Appeal and possible sanctions
Manchester City denies any wrongdoing and has until Friday to file an appeal. The independent commission will still hold a hearing on sanctions, the convening of which may take several months. Possible penalties mentioned include a large fine or a deduction of league points.
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Andy Burnham, who was Mayor of Greater Manchester until June, told the BBC that he was not intervening in the process, as it must proceed independently within the Premier League. He added that the case is being challenged by the club itself and that it would be wrong to draw premature conclusions. At the same time, Burnham said he would be concerned about the possible departure of the owners, who have owned the club since 2008 and are led by Sheikh Mansour.
Criticism from the opposition
The Conservatives accused Burnham of publicly supporting the club’s owners while the proceedings remain unfinished. Shadow Sports Minister Louie French called for political influence on the Premier League’s independent commission to be prevented. Liberal Democrat sports spokesperson Anna Sabine said fans of all clubs must be confident that the rules are applied equally.
David Kogan, chair of the Independent Football Regulator, said the case had raised serious questions. According to him, the regulator, created by the government in 2025, has the authority to assess whether club owners, directors and executives meet established requirements and will apply them where necessary.
