Manchester City launched the 2025-26 Premier League season with a stunning 4-0 victory over Wolves on August 16, 2025, at Molineux Stadium.
Erling Haaland netted twice, while Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki added goals, cementing City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola.
The emphatic win propelled City to the top of the early table, leaving Wolves reeling and their fans searching for answers after a disappointing start.
Match Highlights and Goals
The match ignited early when Haaland tapped in the opener in the 20th minute, assisted by a clever pass from Bernardo Silva.
Reijnders, marking his Premier League debut, doubled the lead before halftime with a precise finish, thrilling the away supporters. After the break, Haaland struck again in the 65th minute, exploiting a gap in Wolves’ defense.
Cherki sealed the rout in the 81st minute with a low, powerful shot, capping a clinical performance. Wolves had a chance when Marshall Munetsi’s shot was disallowed for offside, but City’s high pressing and sharp finishing proved too much.
The Guardian’s live blog captured the electric atmosphere as City controlled 65% possession.
Key Players and Team News
Haaland’s double reaffirmed his status as a goal machine, while Reijnders’ debut goal and assist hinted at a bright future.
James Trafford started in goal, stepping in for Ederson, who’s linked with a £10m move to Galatasaray. Rayan Ait-Nouri, recently signed from Wolves, debuted against his old team, adding intrigue. Guardiola rested Rodri and Phil Foden due to minor fitness concerns, while Savinho missed out with an injury.
For Wolves, new signings David Moller Wolfe, Fer Lopez, and Jhon Arias watched from the bench, with manager Vitor Pereira admitting post-match, “We need more quality.” Yerson Mosquera remains sidelined with an ACL injury, weakening their defense.
The Manchester Evening News highlighted Haaland, Reijnders, and Ait-Nouri as City’s standout performers.
Fan Reactions and Viewing Details
Fans on X erupted with excitement, one posting, “Haaland and Reijnders killed it! City are back in business!”. Wolves supporters voiced frustration, with some calling for Pereira’s tactics to change.
The match aired live on Sky Sports Premier League at 5:30pm BST, with US viewers tuning in via NBC and Peacock.
Highlights are available on ESPN and The Guardian’s site, drawing global attention as of 01:44 PM IST today, August 17, 2025.
What’s Next and Broader Impact
City’s win signals a strong title defense, with Guardiola eyeing a record-breaking season. Wolves face a tough road ahead, needing reinforcements after losing Cunha and Semedo in the summer.
City host Ipswich on August 23, while Wolves travel to Crystal Palace on August 24. The result underscores City’s depth, even with absences, and sets the stage for a competitive campaign.
Transfer rumors around Ederson and Wolves’ squad-building efforts will dominate headlines.
Stay tuned for more Premier League updates as the season unfolds!