Manchester City are reportedly closing in on a monumental new shirt sponsorship deal that will replace their long-standing partnership with Etihad Airways from the 2025-26 season onwards.
The Premier League champions, who have been sponsored by the Abu Dhabi-based airline since 2009, are said to be in advanced talks with a new commercial partner. While the identity of the incoming sponsor remains undisclosed, industry insiders suggest it could be one of the most lucrative deals in football history.
A New Era for City's Commercial Strategy
This potential agreement marks a significant shift in Manchester City's commercial strategy. The Etihad partnership, which extended beyond shirt sponsorship to include stadium naming rights, has been synonymous with the club's rise to global prominence under Abu Dhabi ownership.
Sources indicate the new deal could surpass the £67.5 million annual arrangement Manchester United have with TeamViewer, potentially setting a new benchmark for Premier League shirt sponsorships.
What This Means for the Club
The timing of this sponsorship change coincides with:
- Manchester City's continued dominance in English football
- The club's growing global fanbase
- Increased commercial revenue opportunities
- Potential stadium expansion plans
Financial analysts suggest this deal could further strengthen City's position in UEFA's Financial Fair Play calculations, providing additional funds for squad development and infrastructure projects.
The Changing Landscape of Football Sponsorship
This development reflects the evolving nature of football sponsorship, where traditional airline partners are increasingly being replaced by technology firms and financial services companies. The Premier League's global appeal continues to attract premium brands willing to pay top dollar for exposure to its massive worldwide audience.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Manchester City to see which brand will adorn their famous sky-blue shirts in what promises to be a landmark deal for English football.
