Arsenal kicked off their 2026/27 campaign in style with a dominant 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff,Wales.
It took just 25 seconds for Riccardo Calafiori to make history. Myles Lewis-Skelly picked him out with a clever reverse pass, and the Italian defender fired home the opener for Arsenal making his goal the fastest ever goal scored in the Community Shield.
Maresca’s side could not cope with Arsenal’s constant pressure after conceding the first goal and before the 30-minute mark, Martin Ødegaard’s cross was flicked on by Christos Tzolis and then Kai Havertz nodded in Arsenal’s second to double their lead going into halftime.
Manchester City had moments late in the first half however were unable to utilise their chances. Erling Haaland and Jérémy Doku came very close to hurting Arsenal but all efforts proved futile due to the resolute defence of the London based side.
Any thought of a City comeback was killed very early in the second half. Arsenal sliced through their midfield with quick and precise passing, creating a wonderful opportunity for Martin Ødegaard who finished calmly past Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 48th minute crashing all hopes of a Manchester City comeback.
This victory for Arsenal means they are now the only third reigning Premier League champions to beat the FA Cup holders in the fixture across the last 11 meetings.
Following this victory, Mikel Arteta’s perfect Community Shield record also continues to remain unblemished. In his 5 appearances in the Community Shield, the Spaniard has attained 5 wins, two of which were during is playing days with the gunners and three as Arsenal gaffer.
For new Manchester City manager, Enzo Maresca, it was a disappointing first competitive game after Pep Guardiola’s exit and would quickly want to address the team’s issues before the season begins.
Manchester City will face Bournemouth next Sunday, while Arsenal will also host Coventry City on opening night and with Arteta’s side in full confidence, the question still remains unanswered about who can actually stop Arsenal in the English Premier League this season.
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Story by Samuel Annang | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by John Foh
