Etihad to seek legal advice after Premier League’s Man City findings

Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad Airways has announced it is seeking legal counsel regarding the Premier League's handling of an independent commission's findings against Manchester City. The Premier League has found City to have used "sham" commercial contracts as part of schemes to inflate revenue and understate costs by over £900 million ($1.2 billion) over a decade.

Etihad, which has been City's principal sponsor since 2009, categorically rejects any implication that it was involved in improper commercial arrangements. The airline stated that it was never contacted or consulted by the league during the commission process and had no opportunity to provide information or challenge material that might have adversely reflected on the company.

Etihad expressed deep concern over the public communication of the matter and criticized the lack of clarity, transparency, and selective disclosure of information, which has created damaging implications for the airline despite not being named in the published decision. Manchester City has denied any wrongdoing and intends to appeal.

The Premier League declined to comment on Etihad's statement, citing a focus on the club's internal processes. Etihad emphasized that while it supports Manchester City and its partnership with the club, the league's public communication, following selective leaks and reporting, has harmed its reputation. The airline reaffirmed its support for the club, its supporters, and its wider community as Manchester City challenges the commission's conclusions through available legal processes.