Arsenal opened the new season with silverware, defeating Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield. Riccardo Calafiori set the tone in the opening minute with the first goal, followed by Kai Havertz in the 28th minute and captain Martin Odegaard shortly after halftime.
Mikel Arteta’s side delivered a dominant performance, while new Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca faced a challenging start to his tenure. The match, held at the Principality Stadium, provided a clear indication of Arsenal's readiness ahead of the Premier League's commencement.
Arsenal's Performance
Goalkeeper David Raya was rated 8/10, making crucial saves, including one against Erling Haaland in the 20th minute, and was noted as significantly enhancing Arsenal's defensive capabilities. Ben White (7.5/10) showed a promising resurgence, contributing with forward overlaps. Gabriel (7.5/10) was noted for his aggressive approach against Haaland. Cristhian Mosquera (7/10) also performed well against Haaland, utilizing his pace effectively.
Riccardo Calafiori, who scored the opening goal, received a 7.5/10 rating. His ability to find advanced positions in the final third proved difficult for City to counter. Martin Odegaard was the standout performer with a 9/10, controlling the midfield and contributing to goals. Bruno Guimaraes (7/10) was active and physical, initiating a notable challenge on Jeremy Doku early in the match. Myles Lewis-Skelly (7/10) provided a key assist for Calafiori's goal with a pass that split two City players.
Noni Madueke (5.5/10) struggled with end product despite having significant possession. Kai Havertz (7/10) scored the second goal and was effective at holding up play. Christos Tzolis (8/10) provided assists for both Havertz and Odegaard, showcasing a strong performance on the left wing.
Substitutes Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice both received 7/10 ratings after coming on in the second half. Manager Mikel Arteta was highly praised with a 9/10 for his team selection and tactical approach.
Manchester City's Struggles
Manchester City's goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma received a 5/10, showing shaky moments and not convincingly dealing with Havertz's header. Abdukodir Khusanov (4.5/10) was deemed highly culpable for the second goal and was described as unusually tentative. Ruben Dias (5/10) struggled with Arsenal's runners and lost aerial duels, leaving the team vulnerable on the break.
Josko Gvardiol (5/10) had poor distribution from the back and was slow to react to Odegaard's run for the third goal. Nico O’Reilly (6/10) showed rustiness but managed to contain Madueke. Elliot Anderson (5.5/10) lacked dynamism, suggesting a need for more match practice.
Mateo Kovacic (4.5/10) was criticized for a lack of bite and physicality in defense, potentially highlighting a need for further midfield reinforcements for City. Antoine Semenyo (6/10) was less effective on the right wing than he had been in pre-season. Phil Foden (5/10) was inconsistent and contributed little beyond recycling possession, and was not strong enough in the challenge for the first goal.
Jeremy Doku (6.5/10) was one of City's more threatening players, driving forward with varying success. Erling Haaland (5.5/10) had limited clear-cut chances, with his only significant opportunity being denied by Raya.
Substitutes Jack Grealish, Marc Guehi, Omar Marmoush, Rico Lewis, and Rayan Cherki all received 6/10 or 6.5/10 ratings. Manager Enzo Maresca received a 5/10 for what was described as a limp display, with frustration evident regarding the team's lack of attacking impetus.
