The Community Shield clash between Arsenal and Manchester City will take place on Sunday at Wembley Stadium. Arsenal enters the match as the defending champions after winning the Emirates Cup, while Manchester City is coming off a 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid in a friendly.
Arsenal‘s second-place finish in the Premier League last season earned them a place in the Community Shield. Despite their failure to win the league title, the Gunners exceeded expectations and could still win a trophy on Sunday. They have a strong record in the Community Shield, winning their last four matches and only losing two of their last 10.
Manchester City had a historic 2022-23 season, winning a treble of trophies. However, their preparations for the new season have not been ideal, with a defeat to Atletico Madrid and some defensive vulnerabilities. They will be without injured playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, but defender Nathan Ake is expected to be fit.
In terms of team news, Arsenal will be without Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko due to injuries, while Mohamed Elneny, Reiss Nelson, and Albert Sambi Lokonga are also unavailable. Eddie Nketiah is likely to lead the attack for the Gunners, with Bukayo Saka expected to return after illness. Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale will start, despite the club’s pursuit of Brentford’s David Raya.
Manchester City will be without De Bruyne but could soon be welcoming RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol to the team. Gvardiol’s debut is unlikely, but Mateo Kovacic should make his competitive debut for the club.
In terms of a prediction, we expect Manchester City to come out on top with a 2-1 victory. While Arsenal has had defensive issues, City’s defensive struggles could prevent them from blowing away their opponents. However, City’s quality should be enough to secure their seventh Community Shield title.
Overall, Sunday’s clash promises to be an exciting encounter between two top teams. Arsenal will be looking to continue their Community Shield success, while Manchester City will be eager to bounce back from their defeat to Atletico Madrid and start the season strongly.
