Andy Burnham has been forced to clarify his views on Manchester City after he triggered an angry backlash by saying he was “really concerned” the club’s owners could quit English football.

The prime minister gave his views after City were found guilty of multiple breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules.

Club officials have denied any wrongdoing and are set to appeal against the decision, which was handed down by an independent commission.

If they lose, they face a massive fine and possible relegation from the league.

Asked by the BBC if he was worried the owners could sell the club, Burnham – the former mayor of Greater Manchester – said: “I would be really concerned to lose them.

“They’ve been such a huge partner in the building of modern Manchester. Obviously, the building of Manchester City into the global force that it is.”

Asked if all his dealings with City while he was mayor will stand up to scrutiny, Burnham said: “Oh indeed. I do actually thank the City Football Group and the wider ownership for the money that they didn’t just put into the Etihad and the campus around it but also into the city, but yes of course.”

The PM said there was “a lot at stake … for the football club, for city supporters, for the city of Manchester”.

His comments were condemned by politicians, supporters of other clubs as well as senior figures within football.

Green Party deputy leader Mothin Ali said: “Andy Burnham’s comments are staggering, just one day after saying people should come before profit, he sides with big money over the integrity of a sport that belongs to the people.

“It’s a shame the prime minister appears to agree there should be one rule for the rich and one for everyone else.”

In an attempt to take the sting out of the row, a No.10 spokesman said: “As the prime minister made clear, the initial judgement is serious and there can’t be any suggestion that anyone is above the rules. He also stressed that it is an ongoing independent process.

“It is essential that it is allowed to run its course and the outcome respected. If wrongdoing is established, those responsible should face the appropriate consequences.”

However, the PM was praised by high-profile City fan and Oasis lead singer Liam Gallagher, who posted on X: “There’s only 1 Andy Burnham.”

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