Etihad has moved to defend its long-standing association with Manchester City, rejecting any suggestion that its commercial dealings with the club were improper and considering legal action against the Premier League.
Airline rejects allegations around City accounts
The Abu Dhabi airline, City’s principal sponsor since 2009 and the name on the club’s stadium, said it “categorically rejects” any investigation, finding or implication linking it to unsuitable commercial arrangements.
Etihad has been drawn into allegations concerning Manchester City’s financial accounts over a nine-year period. The case has centred on claims that the club’s commercial income was artificially increased, producing what was described as an unlawful benefit of more than €1 billion during that spell.
- Etihad has sponsored Manchester City since 2009.
- Its name has been attached to the Etihad Stadium throughout that relationship.
- The airline has paid hundreds of millions into the club over the years.
- Etihad is valued at about €5 billion.
Complaint over Premier League process
The airline said the Premier League had not approached it at any stage or given it an opportunity to provide information it considers relevant to the matter.
It is now taking legal advice as it weighs action against the league, arguing that it must protect its commercial interests and reputation.
Etihad said public communication surrounding the commission’s investigation, following what it described as a period of selective leaks, had caused damage to the company despite the airline not being named in the report.
Concern over leaks and public presentation
In its statement, Etihad voiced particular frustration at what it saw as a lack of clarity and openness in the way the investigation had entered the public domain.
- The company said selective disclosures had harmed its name.
- It maintained that the Premier League’s presentation of the investigation had been insufficiently transparent.
- Etihad said the league should bear responsibility for the consequences of that approach.
The airline also underlined that it remains committed to its agreement with City. It said it was immensely proud of a relationship which has connected millions of supporters around the world, adding that its backing of the club, its fans and its existing commercial arrangements remains firm.
