Adrian Kajumba rounds up the key news from Friday's press conferences.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says he will make a late decision tomorrow on whether Erling Haaland is mentally and physically able to play against Brentford.
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Haaland's involvement for Saturday's home match is in doubt as the striker, who has been voted the EA SPORTS Player of the Month for August, comes to terms with the passing of a close family friend Ivar Eggja, who he affectionately referred to as "uncle".
“It’s a tough moment for him and his family. It was sad, sad news," said Guardiola.
"It’s a close person to him and his family, 59 years old. Our thoughts are with him and all his family. It’s sad and we will see tomorrow if he is able mentally and physically to play.”
Guardiola confirmed the defending champions will definitely be without injured defender Nathan Ake, who is now facing around a month on the sidelines.
The 29-year-old appeared visibly distressed as he received medical support at the Johan Cruyff Arena, having sustained what is reported to be a hamstring injury during the Netherlands' UEFA Nations League 2-2 draw against Germany
“He is injured. I think he will be [out] until the next international break. We are unlucky with Nathan and the national team. Every time he goes there he comes back injured.”
However, Guardiola was able to provide positive updates on the fitness of midfielders Rodri and Phil Foden.
Rodri has yet to feature for Man City this season, having suffered a hamstring injury for Spain in their EURO 2024 final win against England in July, though was an unused substitute against West Ham United before the international break.
Foden, meanwhile, has sat out Man City's last two matches against Ipswich Town and West Ham due to illness.
“They’re good, they train. Really good,” Guardiola said.
