Back in early 2023, Manchester City were hauled before an independent commission, accused of breaching over 100 FFP rules. The charges stemmed from a meticulous four-year investigation into the club's financial dealings between 2009 and 2018. The Premier League claimed the Citizens had flouted regulations designed to ensure fair competition, but the club have stood firm, rejecting any suggestion of wrongdoing.

Manager Pep Guardiola and his team have not just fought their corner on the pitch. Last year, Manchester City took the fight to the Premier League, challenging the Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules in a separate legal battle.

They emerged victorious, with the APT regulations ruled unlawful, a win that raised eyebrows across the football world. Whether this triumph will bolster their FFP defence remains a hot topic among fans and pundits alike.

The FFP hearing wrapped up at the end of 2024, and now both sides are on edge, awaiting the commission's decision. Whichever way it goes, appeals are almost certain to follow, prolonging the saga. Manchester City have maintained their innocence throughout, but the stakes are sky-high.

If found guilty, they could face a hefty fine, a transfer ban, a points deduction, or even expulsion from the Premier League.

Despite the storm brewing off the pitch, the Citizens have kept their focus on football. They flexed their muscle in January, splashing out more cash than any other club in Europe to strengthen their squad. The club also secured blockbuster contract extensions for Guardiola and star striker Erling Haaland, sending a clear message: they're here to dominate, no matter the outcome.

But the financial toll of this legal war is starting to bite. A recent report laid bare the eye-watering costs, with Football Insider revealing that Manchester City have shelled out a "staggering" sum to clear their name.

The Premier League aren't faring much better, sources told Football Insider that the league's legal fees for the 115-charge case could push their total bill past 100 million pounds this season alone. The league's accounts for 2023-24 showed administrative costs rocketing from 123.7 million pounds to 200.2 million pounds, with up to 100 million of that linked to FFP enforcement.

"It's a crushing blow," one insider said, hinting that clubs could feel the pinch with reduced funding next season.

As for the verdict? "Expect it within weeks," the report added. Manchester City are poised to appeal any punishment, while the Premier League could counter if the ruling doesn't go their way.

For now, the football world waits. Will Manchester City walk away unscathed, or will the Premier League land a knockout punch? One thing's for sure: this showdown is far from over.

Verdict looms: Man City's FFP battle nears explosive conclusion