Wolves have endured a disappointing pre-season, with mixed performances leaving fans unconvinced about the squad’s readiness for the Premier League.
Transfer frustrations have fuelled discontent, with Bournemouth swooping in to sign key target Amine Adli, who rejected a move to Molineux.
The opening-day clash against Manchester City promises to be a tough test for a side that has struggled for consistency in recent seasons.
Wolves supporters have made their dissatisfaction clear on social media, expressing frustration with Fosun and the club’s transfer policy.
However, the Old Gold will be looking for a dream start to the season, hoping manager Vitor Pereira can replicate the perfect opening-day formula last seen under former boss Nuno Espirito Santo.
Vitor Pereira aims for Wolves’ first opening-day win since 2020
Wolves’ opening day record since their return to the Premier League has been a mixed bag.
From a thrilling 2-2 draw with Everton in 2018 to narrow defeats against Leicester, Leeds, and Man United in recent seasons, the club has often struggled to find a winning start.
This season, Wolves face added challenges, including key departures in the transfer window like Matheus Cunha, which have left the squad less experienced and less settled compared to previous years.
| Season | Opponent | Result |
| 2018/19 | Everton (H) | 2-2 |
| 2019/20 | Leicester City (A) | 0-0 |
| 2020/21 | Sheffield United (A) | 0-2 |
| 2021/22 | Leicester City (A) | 1-0 |
| 2022/23 | Leeds United (A) | 2-1 |
| 2023/24 | Man United (A) | 1-0 |
| 2024/25 | Arsenal (A) | 2-0 |
The last Old Gold manager to open the season with a win was Nuno Espirito Santo back in 2020, when they beat Sheffield United 2-0 away.
An early Raul Jimenez goal set the tone for that victory, and now Vitor Pereira will be hoping to emulate that winning start when Wolves face Manchester City on Saturday.
It’s also the club’s first opening-day home match since they welcomed Everton to Molineux in 2018, during their top-flight comeback season.
Wolves face uphill battle in Premier League opener against Man City
In recent meetings with Man City, Wolves have often put in spirited performances.
Last season, under Vitor Pereira, they narrowly lost, showing they can compete with the elite.
Their most memorable win against City in recent meetings came under Gary O’Neil, when they managed to claim a rare victory in 2023.
Across these encounters, the Old Gold have often thrived when buoyed by their passionate home supporters.
| Date | Venue | Result |
| 02/05/2025 | Etihad | 1-0 |
| 20/10/2024 | Molineux | 1-2 |
| 04/05/2024 | Etihad | 5-1 |
| 30/09/2023 | Molineux | 2-1 |
| 22/01/2023 | Etihad Stadium | 3-0 |
The team has developed a reputation for rising to big occasions, making them dangerous opponents even against top-tier sides.
Pereira will be keen to put an end to both Wolves’ opening day win drought and their recent struggles against City, aiming for a statement result to kickstart the season.