Even though the Community Shield’s significance as a predictor for the upcoming season’s performance is often debated and its status as a major trophy is questioned by many, Arsenal’s triumph over Manchester City in this year’s contest is notable, especially considering the Gunners’ last season’s outcome. Arsenal’s victory could be a significant psychological boost following a late equalizer from Leandro Trossard, a surprising miss from Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri in the shootout, and Arsenal flawlessly converting their penalties.
Despite leading the Premier League for 248 days, the longest any team has held the position without clinching the title, Arsenal fell short last season, and Manchester City took advantage to successfully defend the championship. Arsenal’s struggles against City last season, losing three times with an aggregate scoreline of 8-2, made this victory even sweeter.
Breaking their nine-match losing streak against the champions was a crucial mental victory for Arsenal, regardless of the competition, as it bolstered their confidence ahead of their encounters against Guardiola’s squad. “This is a statement. Now we know we can defeat Manchester City in an important match,” Arsenal’s goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale told ITV.
Despite the challenges ahead, Mikel Arteta expressed satisfaction with the performance. “We’ve demonstrated that we can hold our own against a formidable team,” he shared with BBC Radio 5 live.
Arsenal bolstered their squad following last season’s disappointment due to injuries and fatigue, with the acquisitions of England’s Declan Rice for £100m from West Ham, Germany’s Kai Havertz from Chelsea for £65m, and Netherlands’ Jurrien Timber from Ajax for an amount that could reach £38.5m. These arrivals have undoubtedly strengthened Arsenal’s team, a point conceded by City’s manager, Guardiola.
While Rice and Havertz had quiet performances in the match, Timber shone, particularly at the left-back position. Their presence significantly boosts Arsenal’s squad depth that was lacking last season. Emma Hayes, Chelsea women’s team manager, said on ITV, “Timber looked exceptional. He is an excellent defender who can also step into the midfield. He appears to be a fantastic acquisition.”
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane underlined the need for Rice to maintain his form given the hefty fee paid for him, “Now that Rice is surrounded by better players, the pressure will be on him to perform at his best. We will see how good he really is.”
Despite the defeat, Manchester City isn’t likely to be overly concerned. Their season preparations started later than Arsenal’s due to their treble-winning campaign last year. Some signs of rustiness were evident, especially with last season’s Golden Boot winner Erling Haaland having a minimal impact on the game.
Guardiola conceded the defeat gracefully, “Sometimes you lose, even if you’re a good team. In the end, their penalty takers performed better.”
For Keane, this match held more significance for Arsenal than City, and he doubts it will impact City’s title challenge this season. “City will need some luck, but they have the quality to be extremely difficult to halt,” he said on ITV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Arsenal’s Community Shield victory
Who won the recent Community Shield match?
Arsenal won the recent Community Shield match against Manchester City.
What was the significance of Arsenal’s win over Manchester City in the Community Shield?
This win was particularly important for Arsenal as it broke a nine-match losing streak against Manchester City. It also provided a crucial mental boost for the team, demonstrating that they could compete with and defeat top-tier teams.
Who scored the equalizing goal for Arsenal in the Community Shield match?
Leandro Trossard scored the equalizing goal for Arsenal in the Community Shield match.
Who were the major signings for Arsenal prior to the new season?
Arsenal made some significant signings before the new season, which included England’s Declan Rice from West Ham for £100m, Germany’s Kai Havertz from Chelsea for £65m, and Netherlands’ Jurrien Timber from Ajax for a fee which could rise to £38.5m.
Did the new signings for Arsenal play in the Community Shield match?
Yes, all of Arsenal’s new signings – Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber – featured in the Community Shield match against Manchester City.
How did Arsenal perform in the previous Premier League season?
Despite leading the Premier League for 248 days, Arsenal fell short last season and Manchester City clinified the championship.
Who was the standout performer among Arsenal’s new signings in the Community Shield match?
Among Arsenal’s new signings, Jurrien Timber had a standout performance in the Community Shield match, particularly at the left-back position.
How did Manchester City perform in the Community Shield match?
Manchester City lost the Community Shield match to Arsenal, with Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri missing penalties during the shootout.
More about Arsenal’s Community Shield victory
- Community Shield
- Arsenal FC
- Manchester City FC
- BBC Sport
- Guardian Football
- Erling Haaland
- Declan Rice
- Jurrien Timber
- Kai Havertz
- Premier League
8 comments
That was some match! Gutted for City but Arsenal really turned up. Havertz needs to step up though, missed some sitters. #CommunityShield
Even though I’m a Chelsea fan, gotta admit Arsenal look stronger this year. The new signings seemed to gel well. Interesting season ahead.
Bit of a downer losing the Shield but let’s be honest, we’re aiming for bigger things this season. Shake off the rust and we’re good to go. Cmon City!
timber was impressive! if he keeps up this form, best signing of the summer. mark my words.
can’t believe we won! Huge morale boost. This is our season, i can feel it. Go Gunners!
Finally we beat City, been waiting forever! Let’s hope this sets the tone for the season, excited to see how Rice and Timber fit in. Arteta’s got us playing good stuff!
Arsenal finally beating City? Even a stopped clock is right twice a day! 😉 But seriously, well played Gunners. Could be a real threat this season.
100m for Rice, you gotta be kidding! Not saying he’s a bad player, but worth that much? Only time will tell I guess…