August 16, (THEWILL) — Manchester City kicked off their 2025/2026 English Premier League season with a commanding 4-0 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Saturday. Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, converting a low cross from Rico Lewis after a clever assist from debutant, Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch midfielder doubled the lead just three minutes later, finishing a rapid counter-attack initiated by Oscar Bobb. Wolves struggled to contain City’s fluid attacking play, managing only two shots on target throughout the match.
Reijnders, signed from AC Milan in July, delivered a standout performance, contributing a goal and two assists in his first league appearance for the club. His deft through-ball for Lewis’ assist showed his vision, while his surging run and clinical finish highlighted his attacking instincts. The 26-year-old later set up Haaland’s second goal with a sharp exchange of passes on the left flank. Pep Guardiola praised Reijnders post-match, calling him “a player who understands space and timing perfectly.”
French winger, Rayan Cherki, another summer arrival, made an immediate impact off the bench, curling in City’s fourth goal in the 78th minute. The 22-year-old, acquired from Lyon, cut inside from the right before placing a precise shot into the bottom corner. Despite the absence of Rodri, who remains sidelined with a long-term injury, City controlled midfield possession with 68% of the ball.
Defensively, City kept their first clean sheet of the season, with John Stones and Manuel Akanji effectively neutralising Wolves’ attacking threats. José Sá made five saves for the hosts but was repeatedly exposed by City’s incisive passing. Guardiola’s side registered 18 shots, nine of which were on target, underlining their dominance.
The victory sends an early statement to rivals, with City topping the table on goal difference after Matchday 1. They next face Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad, while Wolves travel to Bournemouth. Reijnders’ seamless adaptation and Cherki’s promising cameo suggest Guardiola’s squad depth could prove decisive in the title race. Meanwhile, Wolves must regroup quickly after a disheartening start to their campaign.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
