The club had filed a lawsuit against the English Football Association after restrictions were imposed on sponsorship deals in 2023. This came after the Saudi Public Investment Fund purchased Newcastle United, which prevented a major deal with “Etihad Airways,” the historic sponsor of the club’s stadium and jersey. The court considered the restrictions “void and non-binding,” supporting Manchester City’s position, according to British media.
Although the English Football Association rephrased the regulations, Manchester City appealed the ruling again before both parties opted for an out-of-court settlement before a new hearing. It is noted that the first sponsorship deal between City was made in 2011 for 10 years, worth 400 million pounds. The extension is expected to be for a larger amount, taking into account the current auditing processes.
Under this settlement, Manchester City ensured equal treatment with other Premier League clubs regarding sponsorship deals, ending a dispute that sparked widespread debate in English football circles about the fairness of the regulations.
