It was over lunch in the sumptuous surrounds of the tunnel club at the Etihad Stadium that Khaldoon Al Mubarak spelt out his hopes of Pep Guardiola building a Sir Alex Ferguson-style dynasty at Manchester City.

Cup football has often rewarded Brentford’s organisation and resilience, qualities that will again be required. Their challenge lies in managing long spells without the ball, while remaining brave enough to test Man City when opportunities arise. Discipline, both tactical and emotional, will be central to any hopes of an upset.

City have identified Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as a potential successor for Pep Guardiola, though sources confirm that the Italian is not the only option

Manchester City beat Crystal Palace 3-0 to continue their Premier League title charge. Erling Haaland scored a double, the second from the spot, either side of Phil Foden netting a fine low strike. Yeremy Pino and Adam Wharton both hit the woodwork on a frustrating afternoon for Palace, who stay fifth.

Manchester City survived a few early scares before eventually coasting to a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, led once again by goal-scoring extraordinaire Erling Haaland.

Manchester City’s relationship with the Carabao Cup has been complicated by success elsewhere, but nights like this still matter. Under slick floodlights and in awkward conditions, Man City found clarity through quality, dispatching Brentford 2-0 to reach the semi finals and extend a December run that continues to gather momentum.

Manchester City eased into the semi-finals of the League Cup with a 2-0 home win over Brentford on Wednesday, and will meet holders Newcastle United who needed an added-time Lewis Miley goal to beat Fulham 2-1 at St James' Park.

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Chelsea: Enzo Maresca 'lined up by Man City to replace Pep Guardiola' amid cryptic comments - Blues boss previously managed Man City Under-21s before serving as Pep’s assistant

The first Manchester derby of the season will be staged this Sunday. / Visionhaus / Getty Images. The first Manchester derby of the season arrives this Sunday as Manchester City host their local neighbours Manchester United in the Premier League.

Chelsea have discovered their route to Wembley Stadium after the League Cup semi-final draw paired them with either Arsenal or Crystal Palace in the last four.Enzo Maresca’s side will host the