Etihad weighs lawsuit after Manchester City found guilty in £900m case

Manchester City’s principal sponsor Etihad has indicated that it is considering legal options after the club were found guilty over arrangements said to have concealed £900 million across a nine-year period. The airline has rejected any suggestion that it took part in improper commercial activity and has criticised the Premier League’s public handling of the case.

Etihad challenges implications of ruling

The UAE-based carrier said it would obtain legal advice in order to safeguard its position. It stated that it “categorically rejects” any conclusion or implication that it was involved in inappropriate commercial agreements during the period examined.

Etihad said the published findings, which were redacted, did not name the airline. Nevertheless, it believes the way the matter has been communicated has caused harm to its reputation.

• Etihad said it was not approached by the Premier League to check the accuracy or fairness of material used in reaching its conclusions.
• The airline described the public presentation of the case as deeply concerning.
• It said the Premier League should accept responsibility for the consequences of how the findings were released.
• The sponsor has said it will seek relevant legal counsel to protect its interests.

City maintain innocence as appeal deadline nears

City continue to deny wrongdoing in the case concerning the alleged hidden funds. The club have won eight English league titles since the Abu Dhabi takeover, while the dispute now extends beyond the club itself to include the potential position of its commercial partners.

The Premier League case has produced a guilty verdict, but City have been given until October 2 to submit a formal appeal. That process could further prolong a legal battle already carrying major consequences for English football.

Guardiola backs club ownership

Pep Guardiola has offered a firm public defence of the club’s ownership during the growing scrutiny. The City manager said his backing for the owners was stronger than ever and insisted the club would face the situation collectively.

“Let me be clear: we will get through this together,” Guardiola said.

Sanctions question remains unresolved

Attention will now turn to City’s appeal and to any eventual sporting punishment. With the club, the Premier League and a leading sponsor all potentially involved in further legal proceedings, the final sanctions have yet to be determined.