Kieran Maguire Predicts Man City to Maintain £68m Etihad Deal Despite New Restrictions

Financial expert Kieran Maguire anticipates that Manchester City will persist in their partnership with Etihad and Abu Dhabi companies despite the Premier League's implementation of new regulations.

Maguire, speaking exclusively to us, expressed his belief that City can justify the value of their commercial deals due to their consistent success on the field, dubbing them "serial winners."

Following a close vote among Premier League clubs, stricter restrictions on commercial and sponsorship agreements with entities associated with a club's ownership group were introduced. This move has particularly scrutinized City's deals with Abu Dhabi, including the lucrative £68 million per season arrangement with Etihad.

Etihad's sponsorship encompasses front-of-shirt branding as well as stadium naming rights for the club.

Maguire opines that City will maintain their "core relationship" with Abu Dhabi despite these new restrictions. He points out City's expanding commercial portfolio, including partnerships with Nissan and Nexen Tyres, which contribute to their revenue growth.

Moreover, given City's status as successful contenders both domestically and internationally, Maguire suggests that the longevity of the Etihad stadium naming and front-of-shirt sponsorship deals is likely to endure.

While the Premier League's measures aim to address concerns over potential conflicts of interest, Maguire believes that City's enduring commercial partnerships with Abu Dhabi entities will remain a fixture for the foreseeable future.

In related developments, City could face a "backlash" following a surprising announcement, hinting at potential challenges amidst ongoing developments within the club.