WOLVES 0-4 MAN CITY: Pep Guardiola’s side have laid down an eye-catching marker to the rest of the Premier League as Erling Haaland, Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki all scored
Manchester City’s summer signing Tijjani Reijnders enjoyed a Premier League debut to remember as he led Pep Guardiola‘s men to a comprehensive win vs Wolves. It was an emotional occasion for the hosts as they paid tribute to former star Diogo Jota.
And Marshall Munetsi thought he had given Wolves the lead with a thumping header, only for an offside flag to rule out his effort. Erling Haaland was predictably the man to open the scoring as he converted Rico Lewis’ low effort.
And just a few minutes later, City were celebrating again, with Tijjani Reijnders polishing off a lethal counter-attack. Both City stars were at the heart of things again as Haaland notched his second from the Dutchman’s cut-back.
Rayan Cherki then got in on the act late on with a low drive as City rounded off a productive evening. Here are all of the talking points from Molineux:
READ MORE: Transfer news LIVE: Isak to Liverpool hint, Carlos Baleba ‘still pushing’ for Man Utd, fresh Eze twistREAD MORE: Pep Guardiola cuts emotional figure in beautiful Wolves tributes to Diogo Jota
Heart-warming Jota tributes
Shortly before kick-off, fans and players alike got a chance to give Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva touching tributes. A number of the forward’s former teammates took to the pitch including Matt Doherty, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva – all of which were clearly emotional during a minute’s applause before the game.
Meanwhile, Wolves fans unfurled a huge banner of Jota adorned with the message ‘we’ll remember you when you walk in fields of gold’, as the song of the same name played across the stadium. Jota’s family, wife and friend Ruben Neves all attended to pay tribute.
There was then a huge applause across the stadium in the 18th minute – the shirt number Jota wore during his time with the club. It was a hugely emotional occasion and one befitting of a person and a player, who was adored in the Black Country.
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Haaland scores again
It wouldn’t be a Premier League opening weekend without Haaland hitting the back of the net – and it was a predictably predatory goal from the Norwegian frontman. Reijnders showed excellent footwork to release Lewis down the right.
And in space, the defender whipped a low cross across the face of goal where the unmarked Haaland was lurking to convert. His goal made it four seasons in a row that he’s scored in Man City’s opening fixture.
It was also his ninth career goal against Wolves, who must be sick of the sight of Haaland. He has only scored more against RB Leipzig. And to make matters worse, he was on the scoresheet once again in the second-half.
Reijnders shines on debut
City really struggled to cope in the absence of Rodri last season but it appears they’ve found his replacement in Reijnders. The Dutchman put in a blockbuster performance on what was his Premier League debut.
Reijnders appeared to cover every blade of grass throughout the game, in what was a real box-to-box display.
He was also very effective going forwards, his creativity shining in Haaland’s opener, while his own goal was really well taken. He then played a key role in City’s third as him, Lewis and Haaland put together a brilliant team move.
Ait-Nouri doesn’t get Nunes treatment
Wolves fans were treated to a number of familiar faces on the Man City teamsheet for their Premier League opener. Matheus Nunes was named on the bench, the Portuguese far from the most popular man in the Midlands.
And predictably, he was roundly booed when introduced from the bench. Rayan Ait-Nouri did not get the same treatment however.
The Algerian defender only departed Molineux in the summer in a £31m switch. Much like many of his teammates, Ait-Nouri had a very decent debut and already looks at home at City.
James Trafford impresses
There have been plenty of questions about City’s goalkeeping department over the past few days. Ederson has been linked with a move to Galatasaray, while City are apparently keeping tabs on Gianluigi Donnarumma.
But James Trafford did his chances of keeping the number one role no harm with an impressive performance. He showed good awareness to come out of goal and mop up when required.
He also produced excellent saves top deny Munetsi – who was offside – and Jacob Strand Larsen. Trafford’s authorative approach when the ball came into his box was also standout. All in all, an excellent debut.
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