Manchester United Set to Clash with Manchester City in Community Shield Showdown at Wembley
In less than two weeks, Manchester United will face off against Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley, a rematch of the thrilling FA Cup final back in May. United emerged victorious in that encounter, defeating their fierce rivals 2-1, and now both teams will compete in the annual season curtain-raiser.
With City clinching the Premier League title and United lifting the FA Cup, the stage is set for another epic showdown. Erik ten Hag, keen to add another trophy to United’s collection, will be strategizing intensely for this match. The last time United won the Community Shield was in 2016, with a late strike from Zlatan Ibrahimovic sealing a 2-1 win over Leicester.
Although only two months have passed since their FA Cup triumph, the United lineup for Wembley could look quite different. One position that remains consistent is the goalkeeper, with Andre Onana expected to retain his spot as the first-choice keeper this season.
The backline, however, might see significant changes. Diogo Dalot, who started in the FA Cup final, may be absent due to his commitments at Euro 2024, potentially giving Aaron Wan-Bissaka a chance, assuming he remains at Old Trafford amidst interest from West Ham.
Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez formed the centre-back pairing in the FA Cup final, but it’s likely neither will feature this time. Varane has left the club after his contract expired, and Martinez is still on holiday after winning the Copa America with Argentina. This opens the door for new £52 million signing Leny Yoro to partner with Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, or Harry Maguire.
At left-back, United faced challenges last season with Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw struggling with injuries. Shaw, who returned for England at Euro 2024, has not yet resumed pre-season training and could miss the Community Shield. Malacia also seems unfit for the match, presenting Ten Hag with a dilemma. Options include starting Lindelof at left-back, promoting an academy graduate, or signing a new player like Ferdi Kadioglu, who has impressed for Fenerbahce and Turkey. Sam Murray, who started both pre-season friendlies against Rosenborg and Rangers, is another possibility.
Midfield could also see new faces. Kobbie Mainoo’s availability after the Euros is uncertain, but if fit, he might start alongside Casemiro. If Mainoo is unavailable, Christian Eriksen or Scott McTominay could fill in. United have been linked with Manuel Ugarte, who could bring much-needed quality and energy to the midfield.
In the attacking midfield role, Bruno Fernandes might not be back from his Euro 2024 break, so Mason Mount, who performed well against Rangers, could get the nod. On the wings, Jadon Sancho and Amad could start, with Alejandro Garnacho yet to report for pre-season and Antony possibly on the bench. Marcus Rashford will be vying for a starting spot if fit.
Up front, the decision is between Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee. Ethan Wheatley, who started against Rangers, could also be considered, though Ten Hag might prefer a more experienced option.
Predicted Man Utd XI vs Man City: Onana; Dalot, Yoro, Martinez, Shaw; Mainoo, Casemiro, Fernandes; Garnacho, Hojlund, Amad.
