Last updated on August 13, 2025
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The players pressed hard, kept the ball moving, and didn’t fade late in the game.
Image credit: Manchester City
Manchester City wrapped up pre-season with a 3–0 win over Palermo to lift the Anglo-Palermitan Trophy.
It wasn’t just a comfortable victory — it gave us a clear look at where the team stands before the Premier League kicks off.
Table of Contents
Here’s what stood out.
1. Reijnders Hits the Ground Running
Tijjani Reijnders needed just one game to show why City brought him in.
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Coming off the bench, he scored twice — both from smart runs into the box and cool finishes.
That timing and composure could give City an extra goal threat from midfield, especially in matches where defences crowd out the strikers.
2. Haaland’s Sharpness is Back
Erling Haaland got City’s first goal with a calm finish in the 25th minute.
More than the strike, it was his movement that stood out — pulling defenders out of position, making runs in behind, and creating space for others.
When Haaland plays like this, City’s attack becomes far harder to stop. Give him chances, and he’ll keep finding the net.
This matters especially now given the midfield issues and injuries around the squad.
Having Haaland sharp gives Guardiola a simple but powerful plan — supply him with chances and he will finish them.
That reliability eases pressure on a midfield that may need to rotate early in the season, and it lets Guardiola be more flexible with formations and subs.
3. Fitness & Match Sharpness
Even with just one pre-season match, City looked quick, strong, and well-organised.
The players pressed hard, kept the ball moving, and didn’t fade late in the game.
That points to Pep Guardiola’s focus on intense training over a packed friendly schedule.
The team looks ready to handle the pace of the Premier League from day one.
4. Defensive Solidity
City gave Palermo almost nothing in front of goal.
The back line stayed compact, the midfield cut off passing lanes, and everyone worked to win the ball back quickly.
That kind of control will be key in the first few league games, where avoiding early mistakes can set the tone for the season.
5. Squad Depth and Competition
City’s bench looked strong, with players able to step in and change the game.
Reijnders came on and scored twice, showing the quality waiting in reserve.
This depth gives Guardiola more ways to adapt — whether that’s chasing a goal, protecting a lead, or rotating players to keep them fresh during a busy schedule.
What Fans Say
“If Reijnders had scored a hat-trick, the result of the match would have been different. We will hope for the next match! ⚽🔥” – B_L Bairwa.
“MANCHESTER CITY KEPT A CLEAN SHEET WHAT A MIRACLE !!!!!!!” – MR FOWOSERE.
“The depth in this squad is satisfying, playing all 22 players and still some really good positives” – Victor Oluwole.
“Tijjani is cooking but guess what ,for us to see more of him he has to be playing at his natural position,we won’t see this when the coach play him as 6 ,That means we need Rodri fit or Nico G ,That will give Reijnders that chance to be able to enter deep” – Jake.
Conclusion
This win showed a City side that’s sharp, organised, and ready for the season ahead.
