Etihad Airways considers legal action against Premier League over Man City verdict | OneFootball

Manchester City’s principal sponsor, Etihad Airways, is considering legal action against the Premier League after the club was found guilty of serious financial rule breaches.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline has strongly rejected any suggestion that it was involved in improper commercial arrangements and says the findings have created damaging implications for its reputation.

Etihad, which has sponsored City since 2009 and also holds the naming rights to the club’s stadium, said it was not contacted during the independent commission’s investigation and was never given the opportunity to provide information or challenge material that could affect its interests.

The commission found that City had used what it described as “sham” commercial contracts between 2009/10 and 2017/18 as part of a scheme that artificially inflated the club’s revenues. The findings have been denied by City, who have confirmed their intention to appeal.

Etihad Airways considers legal action against Premier League over Man City verdict

Etihad was not named in the published judgment, but the airline believes the way the findings have been communicated has nevertheless left its commercial reputation exposed.

In its statement, Etihad said it “categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication” suggesting it had participated in improper arrangements. It also criticised what it described as a lack of clarity and transparency surrounding the publication of the findings.

The airline has now said it will seek legal advice on the options available to protect its interests, while reaffirming its commitment to its long-standing partnership with City.

The Premier League has not commented on Etihad’s statement.

The development adds another legal dimension to a case that is already expected to continue through an appeal process. No sporting sanction has yet been imposed on City, with the Premier League still required to determine the appropriate punishment following the commission’s findings.

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