Man City Open Season with 0-4 Win Over Wolves at Molineux | OneFootball

Man City Begin Season with 0-4 Win at Wolves

Manchester City opened their Premier League campaign in ruthless fashion, dismantling Wolves 0-4 at Molineux. Erling Haaland struck twice, while new signing Tijjani Reijnders shone on debut, underlining why Pep Guardiola’s side remain favourites to dominate again this season.

It was a performance full of energy, precision and purpose, a stark reminder of City’s strength after the disappointment of last year when they ended a season without silverware for the first time in eight years. Wolves had moments, but the gulf in quality and finishing power was decisive.

Reijnders Impresses on Debut

Much of the attention was on Reijnders, the summer arrival from AC Milan. The Dutch midfielder contributed directly to three goals and provided the box-to-box presence Guardiola has been keen to add. He was involved in the opener, driving forward before Rico Lewis crossed low for Haaland to convert from close range.

Just four minutes later, Reijnders capped his debut with a goal of his own. Breaking clear on the counter, he struck low into the bottom corner, showing composure and quality. Wolves were shell-shocked, their early attempts to press leaving space for City to exploit.

Haaland at His Relentless Best

After missing an early chance with a stretching header, Haaland made amends in emphatic fashion. The Norwegian’s movement remained unplayable throughout, and his second goal came on the hour mark. Reijnders was again at the heart of it, cutting the ball back for Haaland to hammer into the net.

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It was the kind of finish that summed up City’s intent: direct, clinical and decisive. Haaland continues to embody the cutting edge that separates Guardiola’s side from their challengers.

Wolves Battle but Lack Edge

Wolves had spells of encouragement but could not find the finish to reward their endeavour. Marshall Munetsi thought he had pulled one back with a towering header, only for the flag to go up for offside. Jorgen Strand Larsen forced half-chances but struck the side-netting, while Rayan Ait-Nouri volleyed narrowly over against his former club.

Despite their efforts, Wolves lacked the composure in the final third that City demonstrated so effortlessly. It was a familiar story for Vítor Pereira’s side, hard-working and committed but undone by sharper opposition.

Cherki and Trafford Provide Bright Signs

City’s fourth came late as substitute Rayan Cherki marked his Premier League debut with a goal, tucking home after a sweeping move. It added further gloss to the scoreline and showcased the depth available to Guardiola.

At the other end, James Trafford enjoyed a confident debut in goal. With Ederson unavailable, the young keeper made crucial interventions and commanded his box well. A clean sheet on his first league appearance will encourage both manager and supporters.

City’s Statement of Intent

For Guardiola, this 0-4 away win was the ideal response to critics questioning whether City’s hunger might dip after last season’s barren return. With Reijnders slotting in seamlessly and Haaland already firing, they look well placed to challenge on all fronts once again.

Wolves will take some positives from their work rate, but the margin of defeat reflects the scale of the task against such relentless opposition. For City, however, the message was clear: they remain the standard-setters in the Premier League.