Manchester City commenced their Premier League title defense with a resounding 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux, showcasing their attacking prowess and the seamless integration of new signings. Erling Haaland continued his impressive scoring record with a brace, while Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki marked their Premier League debuts with goals.
Pep Guardiola's revamped side demonstrated their ambition to reclaim their status as the league's dominant force after a summer of significant changes. City's performance was a statement of intent, leaving little doubt about their determination to compete for every title.
The game began with a relatively slow tempo before erupting into life in the 34th minute when Haaland opened the scoring. Reijnders initiated the move with a clever pass to Rico Lewis, who delivered a precise cross for Haaland to tap in from close range. Just three minutes later, City doubled their advantage through Reijnders himself. Oscar Bobb intercepted a loose pass and set up Reijnders, who finished with a low, driven shot into the bottom corner.
In the second half, City continued to dominate, with Haaland scoring his second goal in the 61st minute. A long pass from Trafford found Reijnders, who exchanged passes with Bobb before setting up Haaland for a clinical finish. Substitute Cherki completed the rout in the 81st minute, skillfully evading the Wolves defense before firing a shot into the bottom corner.
Tijjani Reijnders, a summer acquisition from AC Milan, particularly impressed on his debut, contributing a goal and an assist. His performance earned him high praise, with some observers suggesting the Premier League wasn't ready for him. Rayan Cherki, another new signing, also made an immediate impact, scoring shortly after coming on as a substitute. James Trafford, returning from Burnley, started in goal and showcased composure, contributing to City's solid defensive display. Rayan Aït-Nouri also featured in the starting lineup against his former club.
Wolves, on the other hand, struggled to contain City's attacking threat and were further weakened by the absence of key players. Despite a pre-match tribute to Diogo Jota, Wolves were unable to muster a response to City's dominance.
