Manchester City and Manchester United face off at Wembley on Saturday for the 102nd Community Shield. Erik ten Hag's United, last season's FA Cup winners, will challenge Pep Guardiola's City, the reigning Premier League champions.
Match Preview
Eleven weeks ago, Manchester United capped off their season by defeating Manchester City 2-1 in the FA Cup final, denying City a domestic double. United, under Erik ten Hag, won their second trophy in as many seasons, despite a disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS bringing renewed optimism, United have been active in the transfer market, signing Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee. Their mixed pre-season saw two wins and three defeats, including a 3-0 loss to Liverpool in their final friendly.
City, despite missing out on a treble last season, made history by securing their fourth consecutive Premier League title. They concluded their pre-season with a 4-2 win over Chelsea, with Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick. However, several first-team players have been absent from pre-season, adding uncertainty to Guardiola's lineup.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS bringing renewed optimism, United have been active in the transfer market, signing Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee. Their mixed pre-season saw two wins and three defeats, including a 3-0 loss to Liverpool in their final friendly.
City, despite missing out on a treble last season, made history by securing their fourth consecutive Premier League title. They concluded their pre-season with a 4-2 win over Chelsea, with Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick. However, several first-team players have been absent from pre-season, adding uncertainty to Guardiola's lineup.
Team News
For Manchester City, goalkeeper Ederson is a doubt, with Stefan Ortega potentially starting. Euro 2024 finalists Rodri, Phil Foden, Kyle Walker, and John Stones are unlikely to feature. However, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and other key players are expected to be in the matchday squad.
Manchester United could be without Leny Yoro, Rasmus Hojlund, and Tyrell Malacia due to injuries. Defensive doubts include Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Luke Shaw. Jonny Evans should be fit to play, and Joshua Zirkzee may make his debut, though Jadon Sancho could start up front.
Manchester United could be without Leny Yoro, Rasmus Hojlund, and Tyrell Malacia due to injuries. Defensive doubts include Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Luke Shaw. Jonny Evans should be fit to play, and Joshua Zirkzee may make his debut, though Jadon Sancho could start up front.
Tactical Breakdown
Image Credit: SkySports
Both teams are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. United will likely focus on counter-pressing and quick transitions, while City will aim to dominate possession with intricate passing and patient build-up play. The match could hinge on which side executes their game plan more effectively.
Odds Market
1. Manchester City: 1.63 odds
2. Manchester United: 5.35 odds
3. Over 2.5: 1.50 odds
Predictions and Insights
01
Manchester United has a higher expected goals against (xG) when playing away, at 1.71, with a lower attacking figure of 0.98, making their away performances challenging.
02
In 46 previous meetings, Manchester City has won 22 matches, while Manchester United has won 20, with 4 matches ending in a draw.
