The four goals Man City put past Wolves today weren’t the only source of drama in this Premier League curtain raiser.
It was Rayan Ait-Nouri’s first game for Man City and his return to Molineux packed into one. His teammate and former Wolves player Matheus Nunes also featured off the bench.
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester City - Premier League
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It’s always worth watching how returning players are received by the fans, and today’s reactions were exactly what you would expect.
Rayan Ait-Nouri and Matheus Nunes got very different receptions from Wolves fans
Named in the starting XI, Ait-Nouri had no time to suss out the atmosphere in Molineux as he was on the pitch from minute one.
The Algerian was sold to Man City earlier this summer after four years of loyal service to Wolves. He wanted a new challenge, and the club weren’t going to stand in the way of that. Given the amicable nature of the exit, it shouldn’t have been a surprise to see him received well by the fans he excited so much in a Wolves shirt.
Rayan Ait-Nouri of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates with team mate Matheus Nunes after scoring their sides second goal during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match
Photo by Isaac Parkin – WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images
Nunes, on the other hand, came on as a substitute in the second half to a very different reception. The Portuguese midfielder-turned-right-back forced a move out of Molineux in 2023 by going on strike, forever damaging his reputation among Wolves fans.
Nunes’ last appearance at Molineux was a boo-fest, and this game was no different. Fans’ boos filled the stadium as he took to the pitch, and they continued every time he got the ball. Wolves fans have long memories, Matheus.
Rayan Ait-Nouri was unfortunately outstanding in Man City debut
Tijjani Reijnders was awarded Player of the Match and rightfully so. His goal and assist were immaculate, as was his all-around performance.
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But Ait-Nouri was a very close second. He had his hands full with Marshall Munetsi on the right flank, but dealt with him well, adapting quickly to City’s aggressive high line.
Rayan Aït-Nouri had more touches (96), made more tackles (6), made more clearances (6) and made more interceptions (3) than any other player against Wolves.
An impressive Premier League debut for Man City against his former side. 👏 pic.twitter.com/VH5g31LaYG
— Squawka (@Squawka) August 16, 2025
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His defensive impact was clear to see, and he looked sharp going forward as well. He certainly outshone his former Wolves teammates.
Wolves will be sad to see their star left-back in another jersey, but it’s clear from the response from fans today that Ait-Nouri will always hold a special place in their hearts.