Manchester City kicks off its 2026/27 season in the FA Community Shield, marking Enzo Maresca‘s debut as head coach and the anticipated presentation of new signing Elliot Anderson in midfield.
Manchester City takes the field this Sunday (16) for the first official test of the 2026/27 season, facing Arsenal in the FA Community Shield. The match, which awards the first trophy of the new campaign, will serve as Enzo Maresca‘s official debut as the Citizens‘ manager, succeeding the victorious era of Pep Guardiola. Expectations are high, especially with the confirmation of Elliot Anderson, one of the most hyped signings, among the starters.
The game not only opens the competitive calendar for City but also symbolizes a new chapter for the club. As winners of the FA Cup, the team is aiming for their eighth Community Shield title, an achievement that would solidify the promising start of the Maresca era and provide a strong boost for the rest of the season.
The New Era and the Community Shield
Pep Guardiola‘s departure after a decade of success opens the door for Enzo Maresca to begin his own journey at the helm of Manchester City. The FA Community Shield represents the Italian coach’s first official challenge, and he will be tasked with maintaining the team’s high level of competitiveness. The pursuit of an eighth title in the competition is a clear objective for the club, which aims to start the season with a significant trophy.
Key Debut in Midfield
Maresca‘s starting lineup for the final features a major novelty: the inclusion of Elliot Anderson in midfield. The player, who cost around 116 million pounds, will make his much-anticipated debut for Manchester City as a starter, promising dynamism and creativity to the sector. Leading the attack will be Erling Haaland, flanked by Antoine Semenyo and Jérémy Doku, forming a potent attacking trio.
Bench and Absences
The Citizens‘ bench includes important options for the course of the game, such as Jack Grealish and Rayan Cherki, who await their opportunity.
Also available are:
- Rulli
- Marc Guéhi
- Marmoush
- Nico
- Rúben Neves
- Matheus Nunes
- Rico Lewis
On the other hand, Manchester City will be without key players: Rodri has not been included in the squad, and Savinho is also out, amid negotiations for a potential transfer to Tottenham.
The Full Lineup
The 11 players chosen by Enzo Maresca to start the match are:
- Donnarumma
- Khusanov
- Rúben Dias
- Gvardiol
- O’Reilly
- Kovacic
- Elliot Anderson
- Foden
- Semenyo
- Doku
- Haaland
The formation indicates a blend of experience and youth, with an emphasis on offensive capability and midfield control.
Details of the Grand Final
The FA Community Shield final between Manchester City and Arsenal will be played this Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM (Brasília time). The venue for the match will be Principality Stadium, located in Cardiff, Wales.
The game will be broadcast on ESPN (cable channel) and will be available on the streaming service Disney+.
The referee will be Sam Barrott, assisted by Craig Taylor and Blake Antrobus, with James Bell in charge of VAR.
This match represents more than just the start of a season; it signifies the consolidation of a new phase for Manchester City under Enzo Maresca. The presence of Elliot Anderson from the opening whistle reinforces the confidence in the new signing and the club’s bet on talents who can shape the future. The quest for the first title of the post-Guardiola era is crucial to set the tone for the season and reaffirm the Citizens‘ dominance in English football.
