Exclusive with @AlexDooler @DNair5 UAE officials have warned the UK government that the severity of Man City’s punishment could undermine their appetite for future grand-scale commitments in Britain, according to people familiar with the matter They consider the Premier League’s actions to have an influence on the bilateral state relationship, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing undisclosed information The extraordinary pressure comes after Andy Burnham faced criticism, including from within government, for saying Man City’s Abu Dhabi owners should not be disqualified specifically because of the investment they bring to Britain bloomberg.com/news/articles/…

NEW Downing Street issues fresh statement on Man City case in an attempt to clarify Andy Burnham's comments to @ChrisMasonBBC yesterday A No 10 spokesperson 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.“

Man City will claim sponsorship cash was paid by government — not owners. This, sources say, will be the basis of their appeal, even though the evidence has already been rejected by the commission. A new panel will, of course, be appointed for appeal. thetimes.com/article/975bbd7…