Arsenal have started the 2026/27 season on a winning note after defeating Manchester City 3-0 to lift the Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday.
The Premier League champions produced a dominant display against FA Cup winners Manchester City, with Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard all finding the net as Mikel Arteta’s side secured a comfortable victory.
Arsenal needed just 24 seconds to take the lead through Calafiori, who reacted quickly to put the ball into the net after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s involvement in the move. The goal was the fastest scored in the history of the Community Shield.
The Gunners continued to control proceedings and doubled their advantage in the 28th minute when Havertz finished off a well-created opportunity, with new signing Christos Tzolis providing the assist.
City struggled to contain Arsenal’s attacking threat, while David Raya was also called into action to keep the visitors at bay.
The Arsenal goalkeeper made important saves, including one to deny Phil Foden as Manchester City attempted to respond.
Arsenal extended their lead shortly after the restart when captain Ødegaard scored in the 48th minute to make it 3-0.
The Norwegian midfielder rounded off another impressive attacking move as Arsenal continued to dominate.
Manchester City were unable to find a response as Arsenal maintained their defensive organisation and saw out the remainder of the match to claim the trophy.
The victory provides Arteta and his players with an early statement ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Arsenal, who won the Premier League title last season, showed attacking quality and intensity throughout the contest.
For City, the defeat will be a disappointing start to Enzo Maresca’s competitive reign as manager following his appointment as successor to Pep Guardiola.
Arsenal’s victory also continues their strong record against Manchester City in the Community Shield.
The Gunners had previously defeated City on penalties in the 2023 edition after the match ended 1-1.
With the Community Shield now secured, Arsenal will head into the 2026/27 season with confidence as they look to defend their Premier League title and compete for further silverware.
(The Sun)
