Manchester City avenged their FA Cup final loss to Manchester United by claiming the Community Shield with a 7-6 victory on penalties on Saturday, following a 1-1 draw at Wembley.
The match sprang to life in the last 10 minutes when Alejandro Garnacho put United ahead, only for Bernardo Silva to equalize in the 89th minute.
Pep Guardiola’s team then prevailed in a marathon shoot-out, with Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans missing their penalties for United.
City, who have won the Premier League for a record four consecutive seasons, secured their first Community Shield in this period after losing the season opener to Leicester, Liverpool, and Arsenal in the previous three years.
The English champions were significantly affected by the absence of several key players, who had a delayed return to pre-season after participating in Euro 2024 and the Copa America.
City’s England trio—Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Phil Foden—as well as Spanish midfielder Rodri, have yet to return to training after their efforts in reaching the Euro 2024 final.
In contrast, United manager Erik ten Hag demonstrated his determination to win more silverware by immediately reintegrating teenager Kobbie Mainoo into the squad after his standout performance for England in Germany.
Despite leaving Kevin De Bruyne and Silva on the bench, City controlled the early stages of the game, with the dynamic Jeremy Doku causing problems down the left flank.
James McAtee might get his chance to shine this season under Pep Guardiola, especially with Julian Alvarez likely to join Atletico Madrid.
