Labour's deputy leader, Lucy Powell, stated that Manchester City's trophies are not "tainted" and that the club should retain its titles despite being found guilty of 115 Premier League financial rule breaches. Powell, who is also the Education Secretary and a season ticket holder for Manchester City, described the club's recent silverware as "hard fought for" and expressed pride in their achievements.
Her comments come after the Premier League charged the club in February 2023 with breaches dating back to the 2009-10 season. Manchester City has consistently denied the charges. Club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak reiterated the club's strong confidence in proving its innocence.
However, calls have emerged for the club to be stripped of titles won during the period in question, should they be found guilty on appeal. When asked if she would advocate for City to keep their titles, Powell responded, "They were hard fought for trophies which I'm proud that we got."
Powell also took a jab at rivals Manchester United, referencing calls by former United manager Jose Mourinho for his old club to be awarded any forfeited titles. "I think United were s*** in those years to be honest, as they still are now," she remarked.
Her stance contrasts with Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who advised against jumping to conclusions and stated that he would need to review the independent commission's report in detail if the charges are confirmed. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy echoed the sentiment, calling the situation "unsettling" and expressing hope for a swift resolution.