Man City prepare for Wolves opener with fitness boosts

Manchester City head into their first Premier League game with players back in training and transfer chatter surrounding their goalkeeper.

Man City set for season opener with key fitness boosts

Manchester City prepare for their first Premier League game of the season with a positive update from the training ground. Ederson trained with the squad on Thursday amid ongoing transfer chatter linking him to Galatasaray, though City insist they have not received offers and want to keep their No.1. Phil Foden also returned from an ankle knock, joining a group that included Rodri in the session as Pep Guardiola balances squad fitness with the looming fixture against Wolves.

Rodri has started training again after a serious injury in the last game against Al Hilal. Guardiola said the midfielder is getting better but must avoid any return that risks a fresh problem. He indicated minutes in early fixtures could be possible if Rodri remains pain free, stressing the priority is a clean return rather than rushing him back for the start of the season.

Citys current momentum rests on fitness more than headlines. The return of Ederson to training underlines the club's desire for stability in goal, while Fodens comeback adds to a crowded midfield where Rodri remains the key link if he can stay healthy. Guardiola has signaled patience with Rodri, suggesting a longer window before he is fully up to speed, a move that could influence how City manage minutes in early matches.

Off the field, transfer chatter around Ederson could test the dressing room mood and the clubs negotiating stance. If Ederson remains, City preserves a top goalkeeper who has been central to their success. If not, a refreshed plan for back-up options may emerge. The week ahead will reveal how well City convert this period of training intensity into Premier League form.

Highlights

The season will reveal how quickly practice translates into points.