The new English football season is about to get underway, not with a whimper, but with an electrifying clash of titans. On one side stands Manchester City, basking in the glow of an unforgettable treble-winning campaign. On the other, Arsenal, hungry for glory, having had a taste of near-victory last season as they finished second in the Premier League. These two giants of English football will face off in the annual curtain-raiser, the Community Shield.
Last season, City bossed their way to the English Premier League title, the FA Cup, and the League Cup, a feat rarely accomplished. The Citizens dominated the season, setting new records and leaving fans and critics alike in awe. But the new season is a fresh slate, and past successes guarantee nothing.
Meanwhile, the Gunners have steadily been rebuilding and last season’s second-place finish was a statement of intent. The once ‘Invincibles’ showed glimpses of their former self, marking a resurgence that they would like to kick into overdrive with a victory against the reigning champions.
As the anticipation for the clash reaches a fever pitch, we delve into an in-depth preview of the upcoming showdown. The Community Shield isn’t just about silverware; it’s a psychological battleground, a momentum builder, a statement of intent for the long season ahead. As such, neither Manchester City nor Arsenal will take this lightly.
Summer Transfers:
Manchester City have had an active transfer window following their treble feat, both in terms of fresh meat and outgoings. They have welcomed in the Croatian contingent of Mateo Kovacic and Josko Gvardiol. Riyad Mahrez and Ilkay Gundogan have amicably left to Al-Ahli and Barcelona respectively.
Arsenal have sought to build on last season’s impressive performances by bringing in forward Kai Havertz, Dutch defender Jurrien Timber and most notably, midfield maestro Declan Rice from West Ham for a cool €105m.
Team News:
Manchester City are nursing a couple of injuries. Kevin de Bruyne has not featured in pre-season following his hamstring injury that he picked up in the Champions League Final against Inter Milan. Nathan Aké may also miss out.
Arsenal will be without key striker Gabriel Jesus after he was ruled out for a few weeks with a knee injury. Mikel Arteta confirmed that Jesus will miss the first game of the Premier League season. Bukayo Saka and Oleksandr Zinchenko have both suffered minor injuries over pre-season. Saka is likely to return against City but Zinchenko may still be a couple of weeks away from first-team football. Declan Rice, Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz are all available for their official Arsenal debuts.
Key Players:
Manchester City: Phil Foden
Riyad Mahrez has left for the Saudi Pro League which means that Jack Grealish and Phil Foden are now the two most established wingers in the squad. Foden is exceptionally gifted and a joy to watch, yet his minutes have always been limited due to hefty competition in the squad. Now, he is expected to step up into a more senior role and he is going to shine. His knack for finding space, unmatched agility, and deadly left foot make him a serious threat to any defence, and Arsenal will undoubtedly have their work cut out for them. This match presents another perfect platform for Foden to stamp his authority and set the tone for the new season.
Arsenal: Declan Rice
On what will be his first official game for Arsenal, Declan Rice will be the key man. Rice’s robust defensive abilities and precise passing will be essential to Arsenal’s play, breaking up opposition attacks and initiating offensive moves for his own side. Against a team like City, known for their relentless attacking play, Rice’s role becomes even more critical.
Match Stats:
- Arsenal have an abysmal record against Manchester City. In their last 16 games head-to-head, Arsenal have won just one. City have won the other 15, scoring at least three goals in 10 of those games.
Manchester City:
- City have lost just one of their last 28 official matches
- However, they have not been at their best in pre-season, losing to Atletico Madrid and failing to keep a clean sheet in any of their three fixtures
Arsenal:
- Arsenal have lost just one of their five pre-season fixtures
- They won the Community Shield in 2020, after they won the FA Cup under Mikel Arteta
Manchester City are 2/5 to lift the trophy on bet365. Arsenal are the underdogs at 7/4 on bet365.
