Man City trounces Palermo in a 3-0 pre-season victory, with Reijnders scoring his initial goals
In Manchester City's first pre-season match of the 2025/26 season, a highly promising performance was delivered by new signing Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch midfielder, who joined the club ahead of the Club World Cup, showcased his prowess with a highly efficient attacking display against Palermo.
Reijnders had an impressive 4 shots, all of which were on target, resulting in two goals - a 100% shot accuracy that left spectators in awe. His two goals, coupled with the description of his "impressive late runs into the box," strongly suggest significant involvement in the opposition area and a high expected goals (xG) contribution.
The midfielder also excelled in duels and dribbles, winning all ground duels (3/3) and all aerial duels (1/1), and completing all dribbles successfully (2/2).
City, as a collective, dominated the match with 13 shots (6 on target), 71% possession, and strong passing accuracy. However, the first half saw some shaky moments at the back, a trend that was later rectified in the second half.
Elsewhere, Rayan Cherki, a young talent, stood out in the City match. He had the most touches (70) and successful passes (51/61), and also led in passes in the final third (29). A notable moment was when Salim Diakite blocked a goal-line attempt by Cherki before the half-time substitution.
Meanwhile, in other pre-season action, Aston Villa suffered a 3-1 defeat against Marseille. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang came off the bench to score a brace for the unspecified team in the second half, while Mason Greenwood and John McGinn exchanged goals before the break in an unspecified match. Napoli held on for victory in the second half against an unspecified team, and Girona's Cristian Stuani scored twice before half-time.
As the 2025/26 season approaches, Tijjani Reijnders' debut for Manchester City marks an exciting addition to the squad, with his goal-scoring prowess and efficient attacking style promising much for the upcoming season.
| Stat Category | Tijjani Reijnders vs. Palermo (Pre-season) | |--------------------------|--------------------------------------------------| | Shots | 4 | | Shots on Target | 4 (100% shot accuracy) | | Goals | 2 | | Big Chances | Not explicitly stated, but 2 goals imply high involvement | | Expected Goals (xG) | Not reported (inferred to be high given 2 goals)| | Touches in Opposition Area| Not explicitly reported; described as "late runs into box"|
Tijjani Reijnders' impressive debut for Manchester City in the 2025/26 pre-season featured European-league caliber performances, as he showcased his goal-scoring prowess in the Premier League with two goals against Palermo. His efficient attacking display, characterized by 100% shot accuracy, contributed significantly to the team's success in sports, suggesting a high expected goals (xG) contribution for the upcoming season.
