Questioned about the potential damage to “Brand Manchester,” the Prime Minister compared the situation with Everton’s earlier Premier League case, maintaining that the club had not been treated fairly.
An independent commission initially docked Everton 10 points for violating the Premier League’s financial regulations, although the penalty was reduced to six points following an appeal.
When asked whether Manchester City’s owners might decide to sell the club, Burnham said he would be deeply concerned if they left.
He described the owners as an important partner in Manchester’s modern development and in Manchester City’s rise to become a major global football club.
He also expressed gratitude to City Football Group and the wider ownership for investing not only in the Etihad Stadium and its surrounding campus, but across the city as well.
Burnham’s remarks subsequently attracted significant criticism.
The next day, a Downing Street spokesperson attempted to clarify the position, stating that the initial ruling was serious and that nobody should be considered exempt from the rules. The spokesperson also emphasized that the independent process remained underway and should be allowed to reach its conclusion, with the final outcome respected.
The statement added that those found responsible for misconduct should face suitable consequences.
Following further objections, the wording was revised, with “if” replaced by “wherever.”
Governments across the political spectrum regard the Premier League as one of the country’s most valuable cultural exports, making ministers keen to prevent the dispute from causing long-term harm to its reputation.
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