How important is Community Shield to a team's season?
Premier League champions Arsenal take on FA Cup winners Manchester City in Sunday's Community Shield - but would winning suggest a successful season ahead?
The Community Shield is often seen as a curtain-raiser for the new season, but its significance can be debated. For teams like Arsenal and Manchester City, who are competing at the highest level, winning the Community Shield may not necessarily be a make-or-break indicator of their season's success. However, it can provide a psychological boost and a chance for teams to fine-tune their strategies before the competitive season begins.
In recent years, the Community Shield has been seen as a bit of a formality, with some teams using it as an opportunity to rest players or try out new tactics. Nevertheless, winning the trophy can still be a valuable confidence-builder, particularly for a team like Arsenal that is looking to sustain its momentum after a strong previous season. For Manchester City, who are seeking to bounce back from a relatively disappointing campaign, a win could signal a return to form.
As the new season gets underway, fans will be watching to see how both teams perform in the Community Shield and what it might mean for their prospects. What to watch next is how the teams line up and how their key players perform. A strong showing from Arsenal's attacking duo or Manchester City's defensive solidity could be telling. Additionally, the Community Shield could provide an early indication of how the two teams' managers, Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola, approach the new season tactically and strategically.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.