The English Premier League kicked off with an electrifying performance from Manchester City, as Pep Guardiola’s men showcased their trademark dominance in a 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the historic Molineux Stadium. The game, played in front of a packed crowd and officiated by Australian referee Jarred Gillett, not only delivered goals but also confirmed that City remain the team to beat this season.
The evening started under heavy anticipation. Wolves entered the match with hopes of producing a shock in front of their home fans, but from the very first whistle, the visitors seized control of the game. With their intricate passing, relentless pressing, and lethal finishing, City quickly demonstrated why they have been England’s most consistent force in recent years.The opening stages of the match were filled with cautious defending from Wolves, who tried to absorb City’s pressure and limit space in the midfield.
Barely three minutes later, City doubled their lead. This time, it was Tijjani Reijnders, the dynamic midfielder who joined the club to add depth and creativity, who struck a precise finish past the Wolves goalkeeper. The quickfire double left the home fans stunned and effectively tilted the momentum entirely in City’s favor.
After halftime, City showed no signs of slowing down. In the 61st minute, Haaland once again delivered. The Norwegian displayed the ruthless efficiency that has made him one of the most feared strikers in world football. Rising above the defenders, he buried his header into the back of the net to seal his brace and all but end Wolves’ chances of a comeback. The final blow came in the 81st minute when new signing Rayan Cherki, making his debut in English football, scored with style.
The French prodigy latched onto a through ball, cut inside onto his stronger foot, and slotted home to make it 4-0. His goal not only sealed the rout but also sent a powerful message that City’s new recruits are ready to contribute immediately.Beyond the goals, what stood out was the sheer depth of talent in City’s squad. Guardiola fielded a lineup blending seasoned stars and exciting newcomers, and the balance was near perfect. De Bruyne orchestrated the tempo with his usual precision, Foden and Bernardo Silva stretched Wolves’ defensive lines, while Rodri anchored the midfield with composure.
The defense, led by Ruben Dias and John Stones, gave Wolves few opportunities to attack. Their organization ensured that goalkeeper Ederson had one of his quieter evenings, rarely being called into action. The clean sheet will certainly please Guardiola, who has stressed the importance of defensive solidity as the foundation for yet another title challenge. Wolves, on the other hand, struggled to cope with City’s intensity. Their attempts to hit on the counterattack were repeatedly broken down, and the lack of clinical finishing meant they never really threatened to change the game’s momentum. For manager Gary O’Neil, this defeat underlines the difficult challenge his side faces this season against the league’s elite.
For Manchester City, this emphatic victory sets the perfect tone for their Premier League title defense. Haaland’s sharpness in front of goal, combined with the impact of new players like Cherki, signals that Guardiola’s side might be even stronger than last year. City’s fans will be thrilled not only by the scoreline but also by the style of play. The team’s chemistry, work rate, and attacking fluidity indicate that they are determined to push for silverware across multiple competitions once again.
With the Champions League, FA Cup, and domestic league on the horizon, a statement win like this provides both confidence and momentum. For Wolves, the heavy defeat is a reminder of the gulf in class between themselves and the Premier League’s very best. However, it also gives them a clear picture of what needs improvement — more discipline in defense, greater creativity in midfield, and sharper finishing in attack. Facing City is never easy, but the Wolves faithful will hope their team learns from this experience.
