With two goals from Erling Haaland, Manchester City began the new season with a victory. In the Premier League opener on Saturday, the reigning champions defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-0.
Pep Guardiola’s newly reshaped side saw Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki shine on their debuts, with both getting on the scoresheet to give the team a brilliant start. After last season’s disappointing third-place finish, many see this win as a sign of a promising new beginning for City.
Haaland struck the first goal in the 34th minute. Reijnders lifted a clever chip pass to Rico Lewis, who delivered a low cross that the Norwegian striker finished clinically. The lead was doubled just three minutes later. Oscar Bobb intercepted a misplaced Wolves pass, laid it off to Reijnders, and the Dutch midfielder hammered a powerful shot into the net.
Haaland added his second in the 61st minute, finishing a low strike past goalkeeper José Sá from another Bobb pass. Though a hat-trick looked likely, Guardiola substituted him, bringing on Cherki instead. The French forward sealed the win in the 81st minute with a goal of his own.
During the summer transfer window, City brought in Reijnders, Cherki, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and James Trafford. On the other hand, Jack Grealish, Kyle Walker, and Kevin De Bruyne departed. Among the newcomers, Reijnders impressed most, scoring and assisting on debut. Goalkeeper Trafford also delivered a confident performance in Ederson’s absence.
After the match, Reijnders said:
“Starting with a goal and an assist feels fantastic. Making a Premier League debut is always special, and to win the first match of the season this way gives us huge motivation.”
Wolves coach Vítor Pereira commented:
“We played bravely and created some chances. But against a team like City, even the smallest mistakes cost you dearly.”
The game began in an emotional atmosphere. Fans observed a minute of applause in memory of Wolves’ former forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who died in a car accident in July. A large banner hung in the stadium reading: “We’ll remember you when you walk on the golden pitch.” In the 18th minute (Jota’s shirt number), the entire crowd chanted together: “Diogo, Diogo.” After the match, his jersey was laid on the pitch.
