The season opener marks a return to Principality Stadium, a venue not used for this fixture since 2006. Yet, the shift from Wembley presents a significant change.

For the first time in one decade, Arsenal will not confront a Man City side managed by Pep Guardiola. Enzo Maresca now occupies the opposing dugout, having been appointed to replace the Spanish coach ahead of the 2026-2027 season.

Coach Enzo Maresca during Man City's training session before the community shield match against Arsenal on 14/8. Photo: Man City

Maresca will be the first Man City coach to lead the team in a season opener at the community shield. The last premier league coach to debut in a new role on this stage was Maurizio Sarri, whose Chelsea side lost 0-2 to Man City in august 2018.

Maresca's first key personnel decision concerns Erling Haaland. The Norwegian forward has not featured for Man City during the pre-season, having returned from the 2026 World Cup where the Norway national team advanced to the quarterfinals.

Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta may adopt a different strategy, given his strong record in community shield matches. As a player, Arteta secured this title two times, in 2014 and 2015. Leading Arsenal, he has also maintained a perfect record, winning both his two appearances in 2020 and 2023.

Both of Arteta's victories as a coach were decided by penalty shootouts. However, Arsenal fans likely hope to avoid such a scenario. Last season, the "Gunners" suffered a painful defeat in Budapest, losing the champions league final to PSG after a penalty shootout.

Hong Duy