Etihad Airways blasts Premier League ‘lack of transparency’ over Man City verdict

Etihad Airways has accused the Premier League of a lack of transparency after Manchester City’s financial verdict left the airline facing what it believes are damaging implications despite never being named in the published decision.

An independent commission found Man City guilty of serious financial breaches following an investigation covering almost a decade, with the club found to have used commercial arrangements that artificially inflated revenues by £830m.

Etihad has categorically denied any involvement in improper commercial arrangements and questioned why the Premier League did not approach the airline during the commission process.

Damaged reputation 

The Abu Dhabi-based airline said it had been given no opportunity to represent itself, provide relevant information or challenge material that could now be interpreted as damaging to its reputation.

“The Premier League’s public communication of the commission’s findings, following a period of selective leaks and reporting, has further created damaging implications for Etihad despite the airline not being named in the redacted published findings,” the statement read.

Etihad also criticised the way the findings were presented publicly.

READ MORE: Man City deemed guilty of all 115 financial breaches after independent commission ruling

Selective disclosure 

“Etihad is deeply concerned by the way this matter has been communicated publicly,” the airline said.

“The lack of clarity and transparency, together with the selective disclosure of information, has created damaging implications for Etihad despite the airline not being named in the published decision.”

The airline has now said it will seek legal counsel over its options and potential recourse.

The development adds another layer to the fallout from the commission’s findings, with Man City already confirming that it intends to appeal after rejecting the verdict and describing it as containing material errors of law, principle and fact.

Commitment to the cause 

Etihad nevertheless reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Manchester City and its supporters.

“Etihad is immensely proud of its longstanding relationship with Manchester City,” the statement continued.

“Our commitment to Manchester City, its supporters and our shared partnership remains strong.”

The airline added that it would stand with Man City while the club challenges the commission’s conclusions.

The Premier League has declined to comment on Etihad’s statement.

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