Etihad Airways are considering legal action against the Premier League after accusing the competition of causing “damaging implications” for the airline through the way Manchester City’s financial verdict was communicated.
Man City were found guilty by an independent commission of serious breaches of Premier League financial rules, including using “sham” commercial contracts as part of a disguised funding scheme which artificially inflated the club’s revenues by £830m.
Etihad Airways, which has been a principal Manchester City sponsor since 2009, has strongly rejected any suggestion that it was involved in improper commercial arrangements.
Criticism of the situation’s handling
The airline was particularly critical of the Premier League’s handling of the commission’s findings, claiming it was never contacted during the process and therefore had no opportunity to provide information or challenge evidence relating to its commercial relationship with Man City.
“At no time did the Premier League reach out to or engage with Etihad in the process associated with the commission’s opinion,” the airline said.
“Etihad was therefore never given the opportunity by the Premier League to be represented, to provide relevant information, or to ensure the accuracy and fairness of information relied upon in reaching conclusions that may now be interpreted as reflecting adversely on the airline.”
Etihad also criticised what it described as “selective leaks and reporting” surrounding the case.
READ MORE: Premier League: Man City found guilty of breaching financial rules by independent commission
Taking responsibility
The airline said it was “deeply concerned” by the lack of clarity and transparency and argued that the Premier League should take responsibility for the consequences of how the findings were publicly presented.
Etihad has now confirmed it will seek legal advice over the options available to protect its interests. The Premier League has declined to comment on the statement.
Despite its criticism, Etihad reaffirmed its support for Man City and said its commitment to the club, its supporters and their longstanding partnership remains strong.
Standing in unison
“We stand with the club, its supporters and our wider Etihad community as Manchester City challenges the commission’s conclusions through the processes available to it,” the airline added.
Etihad’s statement refers to a “Premier League commission”, although the ruling was made by an independent commission.
Michael Davey 
SportJustSport writers 
Simon Wilkes