Sign up for Man City WhatsApp channel for up-to-date latest news on 115 charges case

Manchester City have kick-started their legal battle against the Premier League as the reigning champions answer up to 115 alleged financial breaches over a nine-year period between 2009 and 2018.

The Manchester Evening News will have you covered at every step as that seismic hearing continues. The charges are in relation to 115 alleged breaches - grouped into illicit financing and un-cooperation - after a four-year investigation. City strongly deny all allegations and insist their case is supported by a "comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence" - with the courtroom battle getting underway on Monday morning.

It's expected to be a lengthy process and a verdict, one way or another, might not come until 2025. The hearing is being staged by an independent regulator and not the Premier League itself.

READ MORE: Why Haaland decided to play for Man City after death of close family friend

READ MORE: I saw Haaland's true feelings with body language towards Man City teammates

The Premier League charged City in February 2023. Although the club does deny all wrongdoing, there's said to be an unlimited scope when it comes to would-be punishments - if the hearing ends in a guilty verdict.

Point deductions, financial sanctioning and relegation are potential punishments. However, as mentioned, City are vehemently contesting their allegations and, should they win the ongoing courtroom battle, then it would be a big defeat for the Premier League to face up to amid lingering FFP concerns across the board.

FFP and Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) have been hot-topic in the Premier League over recent times. Everton (twice) and Nottingham Forest were docked points last season.

Leicester City avoided a similar fate, though. The