The Conservatives have described Andy Burnham’s response to Manchester City’s breaches of Premier League financial regulations as “completely out of touch” with supporters and the wider public.
On Wednesday, the prime minister said he would be “really concerned” if the club’s owners chose to sell Manchester City after an independent commission upheld most of the 115 allegations against it.
His comments surprised many within football, while the Conservatives branded the remarks “frankly extraordinary”.
Responding to the criticism, Downing Street said the prime minister had emphasised that “the initial judgement is serious and there can’t be any suggestion that anyone is above the rules”.
A spokesperson for No 10 added: “He also made clear that this remains an independent process. It must be permitted to reach its conclusion, and the final outcome must be respected.
“If misconduct is proven, those accountable should receive the appropriate penalties.”
Manchester City rejects all allegations of wrongdoing and has until Friday to lodge an appeal.
The independent panel concluded, among other findings, that the club used “sham contracts” involving several commercial partners to conceal more than £830m in undisclosed funding.
According to the Premier League, Manchester City repeatedly violated its regulations for almost 10 years.
The Conservatives claimed Burnham was publicly supporting the owners while the case remained unresolved and asked whether political influence was being exerted.
During an interview, Burnham, who served as mayor of Greater Manchester until June, said he was not becoming directly involved and maintained that the Premier League must handle the proceedings independently.
He noted that Manchester City disputes the findings and said it would be inappropriate to reach a verdict before the process is complete.
When asked whether he feared the owners, led since 2008 by UAE deputy prime minister and royal Sheikh Mansour, could sell the club, Burnham said: “I would be deeply concerned if they left.
“They have played a major role in Manchester’s modern development and in transforming Manchester City into the international powerhouse it has become.
“It would not be appropriate for me to interfere any further in the proceedings.”
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