City Rev Up for United Clash: Rest, Revenge, and Rising Stars on Tour!
The wait is almost over, Manchester City fans! With just five and a half weeks until their season opener against Manchester United in the Community Shield, preparations are about to kick into high gear.
Rest and Revenge:
City are back in training in two weeks, with a focus on getting players back in shape after the Euros. With a grueling 11-month season looming, giving players proper rest now will be crucial for their long-term success. This year’s Community Shield takes on even greater significance as City seek revenge for last year’s loss to their rivals.
USA Tour: A Stage for Youngsters:
Before the Wembley showdown, City will embark on a four-game tour of the USA. This presents a golden opportunity for youngsters like Rico Lewis to impress. He’ll likely get a shot at right-back with Kyle Walker on Euros duty. Other potential beneficiaries include Josko Gvardiol (Croatia) and Mateo Kovacic (Croatia), both likely available after their group stage exits.
Balancing Act: Returning Stars and Rising Talents:
Kevin De Bruyne’s Euros journey came to an end this week, and while he deserves rest, the Community Shield could be a target return date. Jeremy Doku, another Belgian talent, needs less rest but will be aiming to make his mark alongside established stars like Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish.
James McAtee will also be vying for an attacking midfield role on tour, hoping to impress enough to earn a starting spot against United. A front three featuring Haaland, Grealish, and Doku looks like a potent attacking force, with Oscar Bobb potentially pushing for a place too.
Defense Reliant on International Performance:
City’s defensive line-up will depend on how their international players fare. John Stones or Manu Akanji might be available five weeks before the Community Shield depending on England’s quarter-final outcome. Kyle Walker (England), Nathan Ake (Netherlands), and Ruben Dias (Portugal) all have international commitments that could impact their availability for the United clash.
The Bottom Line:
Despite the international uncertainty, City can expect to have at least three well-rested defenders ready for the Community Shield, with potentially a couple more joining them depending on their Euros journey. The midfield picture is similar, while Spain’s contingent might face a longer delay due to their strong showing so far.
One thing’s for sure: the Community Shield promises to be a fascinating clash. Will City get their revenge against United, or will the Red Devils spoil their plans? The answer will depend on how Pep Guardiola utilizes his returning stars and integrates the emerging young talent on display during the US tour.
