Training: City get the X factor!

Spanish legend Xabi Alonso brought a touch of the X factor to the CFA today as he dropped in to watch Pep Guardiola’s squad step up preparations ahead of Sunday’s Premier League opener at Arsenal.

The midfield maestro played under Pep during Guardiola’s three-year spell in charge at Bayern Munich where he also worked with several members of the City coaching staff.

And there were smiles and jokes aplenty as Xabi, who also played at Liverpool and Real Madrid during his distinguished playing career, caught up with his former colleagues.

For the City players meanwhile, the focus is all about Sunday’s trip to the Emirates Stadium as the season properly kicks into gear.

Watch the video above to see the highlights from today’s session.