Etihad threatens legal action as Premier League finds City guilty

Major Man City sponsor Etihad Airways has warned it will take legal action after the Premier League announced on Tuesday that an independent commission found the club guilty of every financial breach. The ruling alleges more than £900 million was hidden through sham sponsorship deals between 2009 and 2018, casting doubt on the era's trophies.

Financial verdict details

The independent commission concluded that Manchester City inflated its revenue by around £900 million via a series of commercial deals funded by the club’s owners. In the period covered, the Club secured eight trophies, including three Premier League titles, three League Cups, one FA Cup and one Community Shield.

Manchester City’s 61,000‑capacity stadium bears the name of Etihad Airlines, reflecting a partnership that began in 2009 and extends to the kit and training centre.

Etihad’s rebuttal

Etihad issued an explosive statement rejecting any implication of wrongdoing. “Etihad categorically rejects any finding, conclusion or implication that suggests the airline has ever been involved in improper commercial arrangements,” a spokesperson said.

Financial scandal forces Manchester City into existential risk

“At no time did the Premier League reach out to or engage with Etihad in the process associated with the Commission’s opinion,” the statement added, accusing the league of creating damaging implications.

The airline also said it is “deeply concerned” by the lack of clarity and selective disclosure surrounding the findings and is now considering legal action to protect its interests.

Potential sanctions

Manchester City faces a range of possible punishments, from points deductions and transfer bans to the spectre of relegation. The Premier League’s verdict also raises the prospect that the club could be stripped of the three Premier League titles and other honours won between 2009 and 2018.

the Club has until Friday to respond to the verdict, indicating an appeal is imminent.

Etihad Airways threatens legal challenge over Premier League verdict

Wider fallout

The league’s statement arrived two days after Oasis legend Liam Gallagher hinted at the likely punishment for his beloved side, adding further intrigue to an already volatile situation.