Brief

Andy Burnham says he would be concerned if Manchester City lose owners

Burnham warned of the impact on Manchester if the Abu Dhabi United Group loses its Premier League club.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 01 Oct 2026 03:38:05 GMT

Manchester mayor Andy Burnham told the Guardian on 30 September that he would be “really concerned” if Manchester City’s owners were forced to relinquish control after the club was found guilty of more than 100 Premier League rule breaches.

Burnham said the Abu Dhabi United Group had been a “huge partner” in building both the city and the football club, thanking the City Football Group for its investment in the Etihad stadium and surrounding infrastructure. He added that he would not intervene in the Premier League’s disciplinary process, citing the need to respect the regulator’s independence.

Referring to his past advocacy for Everton during their 2023 points‑deduction case, Burnham said he could not “jump to a conclusion” before all details were examined. He reiterated his view that Everton had been unfairly treated at that time.

Independent Football Regulator chief executive David Kogan confirmed the regulator is monitoring the City case and may act, noting that the independent commission’s decision raises “serious issues”.

Key facts

Andy Burnham said he would be "really concerned" if Manchester City lost its owners. (theguardian.com)
Manchester City was found guilty of more than 100 Premier League rule breaches. (theguardian.com)
Burnham thanked the City Football Group for investment in the Etihad stadium and surrounding area. (theguardian.com)
Burnham said he would not intervene in the Premier League disciplinary process. (theguardian.com)
IFR chief executive David Kogan said the regulator is monitoring the case and could take action. (theguardian.com)