Etihad Airways has rejected suggestions that it participated in unlawful commercial arrangements involving Manchester City and is consulting legal advisers to protect its reputation, SGGP reports. The airline also voiced support for the club's appeal.

Pep Guardiola expressed solidarity with his former club in a public message. These responses do not establish that Etihad has filed or won a lawsuit, and discussion of possible sanctions against City should not be confused with a final disciplinary decision.