Pep Guardiola’s City travelled to Wolverhampton’s Molineux Stadium to begin their campaign for the EPL 25/26 crown, which was snatched from the Blues by the Reds last season.
The Wolves have been dangerous at home, and though they had a tough last season and escaped relegation, they have been a good team and have always been difficult to score against. Wolves were waiting for their prey, and so were their fans, looking for a feast.
Manchester City, on the other hand, had issues of their own. A loss of form had troubled them, and the all-conquering, rampaging Blues went trophy-less last season. Their last chance at the FIFA Club World Cup met with a shock defeat to Al-Hilal in an incredible match. With Kevin de Bruyne having left them for Napoli, City were without their mercurial playmaker as they took on the Wolves.
Erling Haaland has been the most proficient of goal scorers in the EPL. Barring Mo Salah, no other striker has come even close to him. There was no stopping Haaland as the big Norwegian got City on the board with his cool trademark finish. The buildup was excellent, and Haaland was again at the right place at the right time.
Three minutes later, Tijjani Reijnders on debut exhibited his terrific striking abilities with a classic left footer from outside the box. The goal must have given Guardiola a lot of pleasure and heart.
In the second half, Erling Haaland was at it again with a powerful left footer in the 61st minute, and then Rayan Cherki, another debutant, produced a terrific strike to make it 4 for Manchester City.
The Wolves were stranded and were witness to City’s clinical football. Though Jorgen Strand Larsen had several good chances, he was too error-prone and, in fact, disappointed with his performance.
The Wolves were mauled instead, and it appears from their play, they might find themselves under pressure as the season unfolds.
For Manchester City, it was a great night. Authoritative football, with great intent and flair, was the hallmark of their performance. A great confidence booster indeed.
City have a tricky game next week against Tottenham, while the Wolves would be travelling to Bournemouth for some Cherries.
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