Wolves vs Manchester City Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 16/8/2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers begin the new season determined to avoid a repeat of last year’s early struggles. In 2024/25, the club hovered dangerously close to the relegation zone in the first half of the campaign before finding form in the latter stages.

That turnaround saw them finish 16th, comfortably 17 points clear of the drop. Manager Vítor Pereira will be aiming for a more stable run this year, but the opening fixture presents a daunting challenge: a home clash with Manchester City.

Wolves – Rebuilding After Key Departures

The summer transfer window brought major changes for Wolves, who lost two of their most influential players. Brazilian striker Matheus Cunha joined Manchester United, while left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri moved to Manchester City. Winger Pablo Sarabia also departed for Al-Arabi.

To compensate, Wolves made several important signings. The standout was the permanent capture of Jørgen Strand Larsen from Celta Vigo after his 14-goal, 4-assist campaign while on loan. They also added attacking reinforcements in Carles Pérez López (Celta Vigo) and Jhon Arias (Fluminense). The midfield remains anchored by Brazilians João Gomes and André, while former Reims defender Emmanuel Agbadou has established himself as a defensive leader.

Manchester City – Transition After Losing a Legend

After three consecutive Premier League titles between 2021 and 2024, Manchester City endured a disappointing 2024/25 season. They fell out of the title race early, eventually finishing 3rd, and suffered a Champions League exit in the playoff round. The season ended with further frustration as they lost the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace.

This summer, the club said goodbye to one of its greatest ever players, Kevin De Bruyne, who joined Napoli. Kyle Walker also left for Burnley following a loan spell at AC Milan. City’s recruitment drive began in January with the arrivals of Abdukodir Khusanov (Lens), Nico González (Porto), and Omar Marmoush (Frankfurt).

The summer window brought more fresh faces, including goalkeeper James Trafford (Burnley), full-back Rayan Aït-Nouri (Wolves), midfielder Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan), forward Sverre Nypan (Rosenborg), and French international Rayan Cherki (Lyon). Star striker Erling Haaland (22 league goals last season) and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri remain central to Pep Guardiola’s plans, especially after Rodri’s injury absence heavily impacted last year’s campaign.

Prediction

Wolves’ defensive fragility is a concern heading into this game — they have gone eight straight league matches without a clean sheet, managing only two in their last 20. City, meanwhile, have scored and conceded in six of their previous eight Premier League outings, suggesting goals are likely on both sides.

City’s superior squad depth, attacking firepower, and historical dominance in this fixture make them clear favorites. Wolves may find opportunities going forward, but limiting City’s offensive threats will be the greater challenge.

Prediction: Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 – 3 Manchester City