Okay, let me ask you a question. Why didn't Mahrez get selected to start in any of the following games towards the end of last season?
Arsenal at home, 4-1
Bayern at home, 3-0
Bayern away 1-1
Real away 1-1
Real home 4-0
united cup final 2-1
Inter CL 1-0.
The biggest games.
Not sure where I said most academy forwards could do what Mahrez does? I'm not saying Mahrez isn't good, this isn't about that. He just isn't key, I don't see how anyone can deny that. He wasn't picked in the biggest games, he played in lesser games towards the end of the season. Something other younger talented players could manage.
There are games he has a big impact in, but if City don't think Palmer could get to that level with regular games, then there's no point persisting with him, we may as well sell him now.
Foden could certainly do well there as did Bernardo.
Alvarez is different. He isn't as reliable in possession, but has way more desire and energy than Mahrez.