Conservative politicians have accused former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham of being "completely out of touch" with public and fan sentiment following his comments on Manchester City's breach of Premier League financial rules. The accusations come after Burnham expressed concern about the club's owners potentially selling up.

The Premier League commission found Manchester City guilty of 115 charges, including allegations of sham contracts designed to disguise over £830 million in secret funding. The club has denied any wrongdoing and has until Friday to submit an appeal. These findings suggest a systematic breach of Premier League Rules over nearly a decade.

Burnham, who stepped down as mayor in June, stated in an interview that he was "really concerned to lose" the club's owners. He described them as a "huge partner" in the development of modern Manchester and the football club. He also emphasized that the process of investigation must be undertaken independently by the Premier League and that it would be wrong for him to intervene.

However, the Conservatives have questioned Burnham's stance, with shadow minister for sport Louie French calling for politics to be kept out of football. French stated that fans are "horrified by what they are reading" and will question whether political pressure is being applied, particularly in light of the owners' investments in Manchester.

Number 10 has echoed these sentiments, with a spokesperson for the prime minister emphasizing that the initial judgment is serious and that "no one is above the rules." The government has stressed the importance of allowing the ongoing independent process to proceed without interference.

Burnham's comments have raised eyebrows in the football community, with critics suggesting he is publicly backing the owners while the investigation is still active. This stance is seen by some as disregarding the severity of the allegations and the concerns of football supporters.

The controversy highlights the delicate balance between club ownership, financial regulations, and the public perception of fairness in sport. The Premier League's independent commission's findings have opened a significant debate about accountability and governance within top-tier football.

As Manchester City prepares to submit its appeal, the situation remains a focal point, with unresolved questions about the future implications for the club and the broader landscape of football finance and regulation.