The Times report said City, in a 165-page legal document, argue they are victims of “discrimination” and refer to a “tyranny of the majority” aimed at stifling their success on the pitch.
All Premier League rule changes and major broadcast and commercial proposals require the approval of at least two-thirds of those who vote or 14 of the 20 clubs.
If City are successful in their legal fight, it could enable the richest clubs to value their sponsorship deals without independent assessment, further widening the financial gulf within the English top flight.
The Times said between 10 and 12 clubs had come forward, providing either witness statements or letters detailing evidence, in support of the Premier League’s defence against City’s claim.
The Times said City are suing the Premier League for damages, referring to losses incurred as a result of the existing rules.
City say the rules were imposed at the instigation of rival clubs reacting to the Saudi takeover of Newcastle, which took place in 2021, with the aim to “safeguard their own commercial advantages”, according to the report.
City have accused rival teams of “discrimination against Gulf ownership”, citing the comments of one senior club executive, The Times said.
