Reijnders, Cherki Score on Debut as Haaland Shines in City’s Victory

Erling Haaland delivered a stellar performance, scoring twice as Manchester City initiated their Premier League campaign with a commanding 4-0 triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.

New acquisitions Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki both celebrated their debuts with goals for Pep Guardiola’s squad. This victory marks the beginning of their quest to surpass last season’s third-place result.

Haaland, consistent in finding the net during season openers throughout his tenure in England’s top division, scored in the 34th minute. Reijnders executed a precise chip to Rico Lewis, who then provided a low cross for the Norwegian striker to convert.

Reijnders added his name to the scoresheet just three minutes later. Oscar Bobb, returning after an extended absence due to a leg injury, seized a loose pass and set up the Dutch midfielder, who expertly placed the ball into the corner of the net.

Haaland, who has been the Premier League’s leading scorer for the past two seasons, secured his brace in the 61st minute. Bobb once again played a crucial role, pulling the ball back for Haaland to strike a low shot past Jose Sa.

Midway through the second half, Haaland was replaced by Cherki, ending his bid for a third hat-trick against Wolves.

Cherki finalized the scoreline in the 81st minute, sealing a decisive start to the season for City, who enjoyed a four-year title-winning streak from 2021-24.

Following a season without silverware, City underwent significant changes, bringing in Reijnders, Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and James Trafford, while stalwarts like Jack Grealish, Kyle Walker, and Kevin De Bruyne departed.

The promising debuts of Reijnders and Cherki suggest a bright season ahead, and goalkeeper Trafford displayed composure in place of Ederson, who was sidelined due to illness.

The match at Molineux began with an emotional tribute as fans participated in a minute of applause to honor former Wolves forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who tragically passed away in a car accident in July.

A large banner displayed the message: “We’ll remember you when you walk in field of gold”.

In the 18th minute, fans chanted “Diogo, Diogo” – referencing Jota’s Wolves shirt number – and his jersey was respectfully placed on the pitch after the final whistle.