New Delhi: All eyes are on Wembley Stadium for the curtain-raiser of a brand-new season. Manchester United and Manchester City will collide in the much-anticipated Manchester derby. Pep Guardiola’s side will be looking forward to taking revenge for their loss against Manchester United in the FA Cup final in May, while Erik Ten Hag will be desperate to start the season with an accolade in this crucial season for the club as a whole. Multiple reports suggest this season will be a deciding factor in Ten Hag’s future at the club, with INEOS bringing significant changes to different departments of the club.
81 days have passed since Manchester City clinched their historic fourth consecutive Premier League title, and 75 days since Manchester United defeated their rivals in the FA Cup final. With the 2024 Community Shield opening up yet another intriguing season, anticipation is high for this clash between Manchester’s football giants, both eager for more silverware.
City arrives with a talented but tired squad, while United’s new players must step up amid injury woes. Though some view the Community Shield as a mere friendly, it’s a key test of form and pride before the Premier League kicks off on August 11.
Why is the FA Community Shield important?
Wembley Stadium is set for the first big match of the new season. The Community Shield, known as the traditional curtain-raiser, has been part of English football since the early 1900s. It started in 1908 as the Charity Shield, where the Football League champions played against the Southern League winners. Over time, it became the match we see today, with the Premier League champions facing the FA Cup winners. If one team wins both, the league’s runner-up takes part, like this year.
In 2002, it was renamed the “Community Shield” to show its bigger purpose. The match isn’t just about football, it’s about helping others in the community. Money and revenue from the game go to local football and community projects and clubs, showing how football can make a difference in the lives of people. Over the past two decades, the Manchester derby has been a big part of this competition, adding extra excitement to the event.
Both Manchester sides face contrasting expectations in the 2024/25 season
FILE PHOTO (EDITORS NOTE: COMPOSITE OF IMAGES – Image numbers 1398650853, 1421991604- GRADIENT ADDED) In this composite image a comparison has been made between Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City (L) and Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United. Manchester City and Manchester United meet in the Manchester Derby at the Etihad Stadium on October 2,2022 in Manchester, England. ***LEFT IMAGE*** MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 22: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City looks on prior to the Premier League match between Manchester City and Aston Villa at Etihad Stadium on May 22, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) ***RIGHT IMAGE*** MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 08: Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League group E match between Manchester United and Real Sociedad at Old Trafford on September 08, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Manchester City are favourites to continue their Premier League dominance this season. After winning four titles in a row, Pep Guardiola is determined to make it five. City’s success comes from their smart tactics, deep squad, and winning mindset. With stars like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne leading the team, they are well-equipped to maintain their top spot.
Despite a tough pre-season, where they lost three out of four games, City’s strong track record and depth in talent give them the edge. Guardiola’s ability to adapt and his team’s consistent performances make them a formidable force in English football.
In contrast, Manchester United have a lot to prove this season. They’ve struggled to seriously compete for the title in recent years. Erik Ten Hag needs to show results, as this season is crucial for his future at the club. With INEOS working on improving the club in many areas, the pressure is on United to deliver.
Prediction: City get their revenge
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 02: Erling Haaland of Manchester City scores their sides second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on October 02, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
This weekend’s clash is about more than just the Community Shield; it’s a key moment for setting the tone for the season for both clubs. Manchester United, despite an average pre-season, are eager to show they can compete with top teams like City and Arsenal. Injuries to key players such as Leny Yoro and Rasmus Højlund have left their squad weakened, affecting both their attack and defence.
Manchester City, although missing a few key players, still have a strong squad with stars like Erling Haaland and Jack Grealish. Given these conditions, a close match is expected. A 2-1 win for City seems likely, with their experience and depth likely making the difference.
Manchester derby is set to kick-off the new English football season, with FA Community Shield taking place on August 10, 2024. Manchester City looks for revenge, while United look to start their season on a high note. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
