Pep Pleads for Patience Despite Dominant Season Opener, Admits Squad Concerns”
Manchester City sent an emphatic message to the Premier League on Saturday, dismantling Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-0 in a statement victory that had traveling fans belting out “City are back!”
But Pep Guardiola, whose side faltered to a third-place finish last season after four straight titles, quickly tempered expectations.
“The start is a good result—no more than last season,” he told Sky Sports, recalling last year’s strong opener against Chelsea before their campaign unraveled. “We see just the first game. So many, many points are still to play for.”
New Faces Shine Amid Uncertainty
The revamped City squad, now without Kevin de Bruyne for the first time in a decade and missing injured Rodri, showcased their summer reinforcements. Midfielders Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki both found the net, while goalkeeper James Trafford impressed in place of the absent Ederson—rumored to be nearing a move to Turkey.
“Tijjani is exceptional, one of Serie A’s best,” Guardiola praised. Yet despite the bright start, the manager voiced frustration over a bloated squad, with Jack Grealish’s loan exit to Everton failing to ease congestion. “Too many people,” he admitted. “It’s not healthy to leave players at home. We must reduce the squad to keep the right vibe.”
With key names like Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol also sidelined, Guardiola hinted at imminent departures: “In the next two weeks, the club will work on solutions.”
For now, City’s title intent is clear—but as Guardiola warned, one win won’t define their season.
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