Manchester City climbed into third place in the Premier League table after a tense 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night, with veteran midfielder Kevin De Bruyne delivering a decisive first-half goal at the Etihad Stadium.

The result not only strengthens City’s push for Champions League qualification but also marks a sentimental high note for De Bruyne, who is preparing to leave the club at the end of the season after a decade of service.

City manager Pep Guardiola hailed the importance of the win, saying, “We are better than we were weeks ago. But we must stay focused. This kind of win shows we still have work to do.”

The victory is City’s fifth consecutive win in all competitions, a rare feat in what has been a turbulent season for the former champions, who relinquished the Premier League title to Liverpool and now find themselves fighting for a top-five finish.

Friday’s match was one of De Bruyne’s final appearances at the Etihad, following confirmation from the club that his contract will not be renewed. Despite only scoring six goals this season—hampered by recurring injuries—the 33-year-old Belgian remains a critical piece of Guardiola’s tactical setup.

His cool finish in the 35th minute, following a sharp exchange between Ilkay Gundogan and Jeremy Doku, was a classic example of De Bruyne’s poise and precision. Finding space inside the Wolves box, he slotted calmly past goalkeeper Jose Sa.

Guardiola paid tribute to his departing star: “You don’t get players like Kevin often. His presence, his consistency—it’s impossible to replace. I can only say thank you.”

De Bruyne, reflecting on his looming exit, hinted that his journey in English football may not be over: “A lot of my teammates are sad I’m leaving, but that’s football. I still feel I can play at this level.”

Wolves entered the match in formidable form, having won six Premier League games in a row—something they hadn’t achieved since the early 1970s. Their confidence was evident in the early stages, nearly snatching the lead when Rayan Aït-Nouri’s shot struck the post, with the rebound cleared off the line by Josko Gvardiol.

City’s defense looked shaky at times, but they found their rhythm before halftime, and De Bruyne’s goal gave them breathing space. Wolves continued to pose danger in the second half, with Matheus Cunha also hitting the woodwork, but City held on.

One surprise on the night was Erling Haaland remaining on the bench despite recovering ahead of schedule from an ankle injury. Guardiola opted not to risk the Norwegian forward, who could be crucial in the final stretch of the season.

The win lifts City four points clear of sixth-placed Nottingham Forest, who have a game in hand against Crystal Palace. Newcastle (4th) and Chelsea (5th) also trail closely behind, both with matches yet to be played this weekend.

With three games remaining and an FA Cup final on the horizon—also against Crystal Palace—Manchester City’s season hangs in the balance. For Guardiola, even silverware might not mask the disappointment of losing their title grip after four years of dominance.

But with De Bruyne showing glimpses of his enduring brilliance, the Etihad faithful are reminded of the golden years—and perhaps, of what might still be possible in the weeks ahead.



By WafricNews Sports Desk.