Haaland and Cherki score as City’s rout continues!

Haaland and Reijnders put Manchester City ahead

City’s starting XI is ready!

Wolves announce their lineup

The Premier League 2024/25 kicks off this weekend with one of the standout fixtures: Wolverhampton Wanderers hosting Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side begin a new era of rebuilding, eager to return to title contention after a disappointing season in which they failed to lift a single trophy.

On the other side, Wolves arrive with concerns following a poor preseason and the departures of key players such as Matheus Cunha and Rayan Aït-Nouri, leaving them among the more vulnerable teams in the competition.

Rodri’s return boosts City

The comeback of Rodrigo Hernández is the biggest boost for the Citizens. The Spanish midfielder, sidelined with a serious knee injury last September, is now fully fit and included in the squad. Guardiola confirmed in a press conference that “his knee is perfect” and stressed the importance of gradually easing him back into action to avoid setbacks.

The Catalan coach also faces the challenge of integrating several new signings, including Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, and James Trafford, after an investment of over €300 million in this transfer window.

Guardiola leads City’s rebuild

Last season was the worst of the Guardiola era at Manchester City, with early exits in both the Champions League and FA Cup, as well as surrendering the Premier League far earlier than expected. Even so, the Spaniard extended his contract for two more years, committing to oversee a rebuild reminiscent of Jürgen Klopp’s revival at Liverpool.

The club parted ways with stalwarts like Kevin De Bruyne and Kyle Walker, and assistant coach Juanma Lillo also departed, replaced by Pep Lijnders. In return, City secured Erling Haaland’s future until 2034 and bet on emerging talents to reignite a project aiming to dominate both domestically and in Europe.

The opener against Wolves is the perfect stage for City to showcase its credentials and regain confidence from the very first matchday. For the hosts, it’s a daunting test against a wounded but determined rival.

The Premier League begins, along with Guardiola’s unfinished business: restoring Manchester City to the summit before closing his chapter at the Etihad.