The 2025 Community Shield will see Manchester City face off against Manchester United this Saturday at Wembley Stadium, setting the stage for an intense season opener between two of England’s football giants.
United claimed their spot in this fixture by defeating City 2-1 in a dramatic FA Cup final, handing Erik ten Hag his second trophy with the Red Devils. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola’s side earned their return to Wembley after clinching a historic fourth consecutive Premier League title.
Manchester City: Depth Tested Ahead of Season Start
Manchester City enter the clash with a few questions surrounding their starting lineup, especially in goal. Although transfer rumors have swirled around Ederson this summer, his absence from the starting XI has more to do with Stefan Ortega’s established role as the club’s go-to goalkeeper for cup competitions.
Several City players, including Kyle Walker, missed pre-season training after being granted extended rest following their Euro 2024 campaigns. This has opened the door for younger talents like Rico Lewis, who has consistently featured at right-back in pre-season matches.
Kalvin Phillips, typically a midfielder, has been tested in central defense alongside Josko Gvardiol. Josh Wilson-Esbrand has filled in at left-back during friendlies. But with first-choice defenders Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Ake now available, Guardiola is expected to reshape the back line.
Speaking on Phillips’ new role, Guardiola said, “He’s a central midfielder, but when the game is in front of him, he’s much more comfortable. He’s done well on tour, and I should have seen sooner that he could perform in that position.”
Rodri is unlikely to start, meaning Phillips might get a rare opportunity in midfield. Up front, Erling Haaland is fully fit and firing. The Norwegian striker, who was not involved in international duty over the summer, has been in top form during pre-season, recently scoring a hat-trick against Chelsea.
City’s attacking midfield options are stacked. While Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, and Bernardo Silva are expected to be available, they may not all start. New arrival Savinho is set to make his debut after transferring from Girona, but Jack Grealish and Oscar Bobb are likely to be preferred on the wings for their superior match fitness.
James McAtee could take the number 10 role behind Haaland, with stars like De Bruyne and Foden likely to come off the bench in the second half.
Manchester United: Defensive Concerns and Tactical Decisions
United approach the Community Shield with significant defensive issues. Andre Onana is confirmed in goal, but the backline is a patchwork due to injuries and absences.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka was forced off during United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool with an unspecified knock, which could see Diogo Dalot start at right-back. At center-back, Leny Yoro is sidelined for three months due to a foot injury, while Harry Maguire continues his recovery after missing Euro 2024.
Jonny Evans, who left the pitch during the Liverpool match due to illness, is expected to be available, while Victor Lindelof is also dealing with fitness concerns. On the left, Tyrell Malacia remains out, and Luke Shaw has played only once since mid-January, opening the door for youngster Harry Amass to potentially start.
In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo has been given extended time off after Euro 2024, so he’s likely to be a substitute. That leaves Casemiro partnered with either Scott McTominay or Christian Eriksen in central midfield.
Up front, Amad Diallo has been a standout performer on the right during pre-season, positioning himself for a possible start. Jadon Sancho is back in the squad after holding talks with Ten Hag and could feature on the left or even centrally in the forward line.
Ten Hag commented on Sancho’s role: “Jadon can play anywhere across the front. It depends on our tactics and the opponent. His versatility offers us a lot of options.”
High Stakes in the Capital
As both Manchester sides head into the new season, the Community Shield offers more than just silverware — it’s a chance to lay down a marker. For City, it’s about continuing their dominance; for United, it’s about proving their progress under Ten Hag is no fluke.
