City travel to Crystal Palace looking to get back on track after defeat to Wolves last time out, and the press have been looking at Pep Guardiola‘s options ahead of that one.
And former City coach Willie Donachie has conducted a fascinating interview with the Mail.
But let’s start today’s Media Watch with a slice of transfer gossip...
Transfer news
The Sun: Man City join race with Real Madrid and Barcelona for Red Bull Salzburg hotshot Erling Haaland
Daniel Cutts writes: “Manchester City have joined the growing list of Europe’s giants looking at Red Bull Salzburg star Erling Haaland.
“The Norwegian striker has caught the attention of top clubs after a staggering 18 goals in 11 games this season.
“The 19-year-old is also wanted by Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United among a number of others.
“And City have joined them after sending scouts to watch the forward against Liverpool in the Champions League.
“He scored during the dramatic match which ended in an astonishing 4-3 win for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
“Haaland earned rave reviews at the Under-20s World Cup this summer when he scored a world-record NINE goals in a single game.”
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READ | Mendy back as players return to training
Features
The Mail: Mind Games: Manchester City legend Willie Donachie on how he uses his background in meditation as boss of tiny Montserrat
Willie Donachie says: “’First time round, Malcolm [Allison] was brilliant, way ahead, bringing in weight-lifting and fitness work, very simple and positive, always encouraging.
“I became a coach because I wanted players to enjoy playing. Dan will tell you now it’s changed. With kids it’s too complicated — you’ve got all these learning plans and parents thinking they might become stars. They should be having fun and playing — it’s playing football.
“When I went to Man City, I was almost 17. Now kids of eight or nine think they’ve got a chance because they’re signed by a club.”
Match previews
Evening Standard: Man City XI vs Crystal Palace - predicted lineups
James Robson writes: “Pep Guardiola is hoping to have John Stones and Kevin de Bruyne back for City’s trip to Crystal Palace after both spent the international break recuperating from injury.
“The pair have taken part in full training as Manchester City prepare for the trip to Crystal Palace on Saturday.
“Man City possible XI (4-3-3): Ederson; Cancelo, Stones, Otamendi, Zinchenko; De Bruyne, Fernandinho, Silva; Mahrez, Aguero, Sterling”
BBC Sport: Premier League predictions
Mark Lawrenson writes: “Manchester City have had a few problems against Crystal Palace in the recent past but they will go into this game fully focused, knowing they cannot afford to drop any more points in the title race.
“John Stones is in contention to return to the City defence after injury, which will be useful, because Nicolas Otamendi clearly needs some help.
“City will still have to fight to win this one but I think they will be find a way through, and end the Eagles’ unbeaten home start.
“Lawro’s prediction: 0-3”
That’s all for this morning’s Media Watch - stay with us throughout the day as we bring you all the latest City news ahead of Saturday’s big game.
