"The best way to start the season - with a title": Arsenal and City, head to head

The first title of the 2026/27 season in English football will be awarded tomorrow (Sunday, 17:00, Sport1) when Arsenal and Manchester City meet in the Community Shield. The Gunners have won the title 17 times in the past and have won all five of their visits to the event, while the Citizens have done so 7 times.

Arsenal arrives at the meeting after winning the championship last season and putting an end to a 22-year wait for a title. During the summer, they strengthened with the addition of Bruno Guimarães and Christos Tzolis. On the other hand, Manchester City is opening a new era under Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola and immediately gets a chance to win a first title. The manager has already stated that one of his main goals is to "close the gap from Arsenal," who finished last season seven points above City.

"When there is a cup at stake, it is not a friendly match," said the coach. "We want to do everything to win the first title."

City went through a summer full of changes, with the departure of Bernardo Silva and John Stones and the addition of Elliot Anderson in a club-record deal. Rodri is also one foot out of the club and will likely not be involved, while Erling Haaland may start on the bench.

"The best version of Arsenal needs to show up on Sunday," said Arteta. "The best way to start the season is to lift the first title."

The champion will arrive without the injured Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, while Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi are available, although they may start on the bench after not having played yet in the pre-season. Bruno Guimarães is expected to get a chance in the lineup, and Tzolis may also start on the wing.