Erling Haaland, new formation and 10 youngsters — What Man City can learn on pre-season tour

Manchester City have landed in Houston and will begin their tour activities on Sunday as part of an action-filled eight days in the USA.

The tour began with the news that four key first team players wouldn't travel, but that gives others — including the four new signings — a chance to impress Pep Guardiola for a week ahead of the new season. A number of youngsters have travelled, too, giving a useful opportunity to show the coaching staff what they can do in a senior matchday environment.

With a heatwave warning back in the UK, City players will have been met with 35 degree temperatures in Texas when they arrived, plus the high humidity, with the potential to rise further during their stay in Houston. However, the 26-man squad will have to adapt as this week could play a key role in their prospects for the coming season.

ALSO READ: City suffer blow as four senior players miss pre-season tour

With two games and plenty of off-field activities, these are the talking points ahead of the USA tour:

First look at Haaland

All eyes will be on Erling Haaland whenever he is training or playing on the tour. Fans have noticed the lack of Haaland photos in training pictures published by the club, but he was front and centre of the squad as they boarded their flight to Houston, and his every kick will be analysed when City face Club America on Wednesday.

City will be hoping for a quick start from their new number nine, and what better way to get going in front of two huge crowds to hopefully arrive at the Community Shield clash with Liverpool with some momentum.

Alvarez and Phillips can make a point

The other two eye-catching new signings — with no disrespect to new back-up goalkeeper Stefan Ortega — are Julian Alvarez and Kalvin