One of Man City’s best performers at the weekend was debutant Tijjani Reijnders, who seemed to cover every blade of grass in what was an outstanding performance, but one Wolves star worked even harder.
Trying to take positives from Saturday’s loss requires a real glass-half-full mentality, but despite losing by four, there were some aspects of Wolves’ performance that provide encouragement.
Vitor Pereira, Head Coach of Wolverhampton Wanderers, looks on during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City at Molineux
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
David Moller Wolfe’s pace against City bodes well, and another player’s engine stood out for Wolves.
Marshall Munetsi’s 11.7km covered vs Man City bests Tijjani Reijnders
Vitor Pereira’s selections in the front-line had some Wolves fans confused, with neither Jhon Arias nor Fer Lopez getting their first Premier League start.
Instead, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and Marshall Munetsi got the nod, with the latter’s work rate justifying his inclusion and causing City some problems.
Nico Gonzalez of Manchester City is put under pressure by Jorgen Strand Larsen of Wolverhampton Wanderers
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
According to FotMob, Munetsi ran 11.7km, the most of any Wolves player, and second-most on the day behind City’s Nico Gonzalez.
Pereira’s decision to start the 29-year-old was likely for that very reason, wanting a physical presence to put pressure on City’s back line. He certainly did, and also featured in most of Wolves’ success going forward, though there was one problem with his attacking play.
Man City’s high line caused Marshall Munetsi and Wolves problems
Munetsi put the ball in the net with a lovely header during the first half on Saturday, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
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This wasn’t the first time the flag was raised for Munetsi, and it wouldn’t be the last. It’s something the Zimbabwe international will have to work on if he is to be a regular in the Wolves attack.
But Munetsi’s overall performance against City was encouraging. His physical presence will be a valuable asset for Pereira this season, deploying him in games where Wolves need to press high.
He has shown he is well able to put in the work with his running. Now, if he can add a bit more offensive awareness and composure in front of goal, this could be a breakout season for Munetsi.
We could use it.