# Andy Burnham worries over City owners

> Prime minister expresses concern if Manchester City lose owners after guilty verdicts.
- Title: Andy Burnham worries over City owners · the Guardian
- Summary: Prime minister expresses concern if Manchester City lose owners after guilty verdicts. Andy Burnham says losing Manchester City's owners would be 'really…
- Keywords: andy burnham, manchester city, city football group, premier league, independent football regulator, abu dhabi united group, sham contracts, legal costs, sports, Andy, Burnham, worries
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/30/andy-burnham-manchester-city-premier-league
- Published: 2026-09-30T18:31:05+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: andy burnham, manchester city, city football group, premier league, independent football regulator, abu dhabi united group, sham contracts, legal costs, sports
## Andy Burnham's concern
Andy Burnham admits to 'concern' if Manchester City lose their owners after guilty verdicts.

> I would be really concerned to lose them
## City's investment impact
City Football Group invested billions into Manchester, including Etihad Stadium and city development.
## IFR monitoring case
Independent Football Regulator confirms it has powers to investigate Abu Dhabi United Group's suitability after £900m sham contracts.
## Legal costs potential
Manchester City could face up to £50m in legal costs from Premier League disciplinary action.
## Burnham's stance
Burnham will not intervene in Premier League disciplinary process despite potential impact on UK-Abu Dhabi trade relationship.
## Everton comparison
Burnham recalls Everton being docked six points for breaching rules in 2023, saying they were 'not fairly treated'.

> Everton was in this position a few years ago
## Key takeaway

Andy Burnham says losing Manchester City's owners would be 'really concerned' due to their role in building modern Manchester and the club's global status.