Tijjani Reijnders starred on his Premier League debut as Manchester City cruised past Wolves with a dominant display.
After last season’s disappointing campaign, where the club finished trophyless, City are determined to bounce back. Reijnders was instrumental, with the Dutchman’s all-round performance setting the tone for a commanding win.
Tijjani Reijnders: A Debut to Remember
Signed from AC Milan in the summer for a reported £46 million, expectations were high. Reijnders arrives after his most prolific season in Italy, scoring 15 goals in all competitions, and with Kevin De Bruyne leaving at the end of last season, the pressure was on the 26-year-old to adapt quickly to the Premier League.
He wasted no time. Reijnders impressed with his ability to carry the ball deep into Wolves’ half, using his quick feet and composure to dictate the tempo. His pressing off the ball made it difficult for Wolves’ midfield to settle, while his creative spark lit up City’s attack. A precise ball over the top found Rico Lewis, who squared for Erling Haaland to tap home — an early glimpse of the chemistry already forming.
Minutes later, Reijnders marked the occasion with his first Premier League goal. After intercepting a loose pass, he drove at Wolves’ back line before calmly slotting past José Sá. Manager Pep Guardiola praised the Dutchman afterwards, highlighting his energy and intelligence on and off the ball.
Manchester City Targeting a Bounce-Back Season
City endured an uncharacteristic 2024/25 campaign, hampered by injuries to key defenders and to Rodri, and ultimately finished third behind Arsenal and Liverpool. The arrival of Reijnders is seen as the marquee move of the summer, with Guardiola hoping the Dutchman can help fill the creative void left by De Bruyne.
The champions looked sharp in their 4-0 victory and will aim to maintain momentum as they face Tottenham next, seeking to extend their 100% start to the season.
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