The club faces 115 charges of financial misconduct, which include allegations of inflating sponsorship revenue and making undisclosed payments to former manager Roberto Mancini.

According to AFP, Manchester City is set to defend itself against potential expulsion from the Premier League as the sport’s "trial of the century" begins on Monday. The club faces 115 charges of financial misconduct, which include allegations of inflating sponsorship revenue and making undisclosed payments to former manager Roberto Mancini. City firmly denies any wrongdoing and asserts that they have "irrefutable evidence" to prove their innocence.

If found guilty, the club could face severe penalties, such as a points deduction or even expulsion. The independent commission conducting the hearing is expected to deliberate for about 10 weeks, with a verdict not anticipated until 2025. City has stated their intention to appeal if they are found guilty.

The investigation was triggered by leaked documents suggesting that City may have attempted to conceal direct investments from their owners by misclassifying them as sponsorship income. These revelations have raised concerns about the club’s financial practices and the influence of their wealthy backers.

City has previously encountered similar allegations and successfully overturned a two-year ban from the Champions League in 2020. However, this case presents a different challenge as it involves the Premier League, and the potential repercussions of a guilty verdict are significant. It could strain diplomatic relations between the UK and the UAE, where City’s owners are based, and might result in compensation claims from rival clubs. Additionally, it could impact the future of City's star players, such as Erling Haaland.

Manager Pep Guardiola, who has shown unwavering support for City's owners, has stated that he would leave the club if they were not honest with him. A guilty verdict could end his successful tenure at Manchester City.

The outcome of this case will be crucial for the Premier League and the broader football landscape. It will test the league’s ability to enforce financial regulations and could set a significant precedent for future cases involving state-backed clubs.