Etihad Airways is considering legal action against the Premier League following the publication of findings from the independent commission that ruled on Manchester City’s long-running financial case.
The airline, which has been Manchester City’s principal shirt sponsor since 2009, strongly rejected any suggestion that it was involved in improper commercial arrangements.
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Etihad said it categorically rejects any finding or implication suggesting that the airline participated in improper financial arrangements involving Manchester City.
The airline also expressed concern about the way the Premier League communicated the commission’s findings publicly, arguing that the disclosures could damage its reputation even though Etihad was not named in the published decision.
The airline said it had not been contacted by the Premier League during the investigation and was therefore not given an opportunity to provide information or respond to matters that could affect its reputation.
What the Commission Found
The independent commission found Manchester City guilty of serious breaches of Premier League financial rules covering nine seasons between 2009/10 and 2017/18.
According to the Premier League, City used what the commission described as “sham” commercial agreements with some sponsors as part of a disguised funding arrangement. The league said the schemes artificially increased the club’s reported revenues and reduced its costs by more than £900 million during the period under review.
The commission also found that the club filed misstated accounts and concealed the true state of its finances from auditors and football regulators.
Manchester City has rejected the findings and said it intends to appeal the decision.
Etihad Says It Was Not Given a Chance to Respond
Etihad argued that the Premier League should have engaged with the airline during the investigation, particularly because the findings relate to commercial sponsorship arrangements.
The airline said it was never given the opportunity to provide relevant information or ensure that information concerning its commercial relationship with Manchester City was properly understood.
Etihad also said it remains proud of its longstanding relationship with Manchester City and continues to support the club and its supporters.
The airline has now indicated that it will seek legal advice on what options may be available to protect its interests.
Manchester City Faces Further Proceedings
Manchester City is expected to appeal the commission’s findings, meaning the case has not yet reached its final stage.
The club could eventually face sanctions following a separate process to determine the appropriate punishment. Possible sanctions under Premier League rules include financial penalties, points deductions and, in certain circumstances, expulsion from the league.
The dispute involving Etihad adds another dimension to the long-running case, particularly because the airline disputes any suggestion that it participated in improper sponsorship arrangements.
For now, attention will remain on Manchester City’s planned appeal and on whether Etihad ultimately takes legal action against the Premier League over the publication and handling of the findings.
