Prediction: Manchester City to win to nil
Odds: 56/19
Bookmaker: 888Sport
The English domestic season finally gets back underway on Sunday as Chelsea and Manchester City face off in the Community Shield at Wembley Stadium.
The Premier League and FA Cup winners clash in the capital attempting to capture the first silverware of the season.
Chelsea
It would be fair to suggest that there have been changes aplenty at Stamford Bridge over the summer. Premier League and FA Cup winning manager Antonio Conte has departed and been replaced by fellow Italian and former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri. Their summer transfer business comparatively, has been a little quieter. The only arrivals in West London have been Italian midfielder Jorginho for over £50million and veteran goalkeeper Rob Green. Spanish forward Pedro has also penned a new contract at the club. Although, huge questions still do remain over the futures of key trio, Thibaut Courtois, Eden Hazard and Willian who have all been linked to moves to La Liga with Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Despite ending their 2017/18 Premier League campaign in poor form with a 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United, the Blues’ pre-season has been so far positive. They have earned wins over Perth Glory and Inter Milan, whilst they were only just edged out by Arsenal on penalties in the International Champions Cup. A win against Pep Guardiola’s Citizens would be the perfect start for Sarri’s four-time Community Shield winners.
Team News
Jorginho could potentially make his debut for the Blues at Wembley, whilst Cesc Fabregas is a slight doubt due to a knee injury. Kurt Zouma has been ruled out with a similar problem upon his return from Stoke City.
Manchester City
Guardiola’s troops could get their 2018/19 off to a perfect start at Wembley following an almost flawless season last time out. The Sky Blues were by far and away the best side in the Premier League, winning 32 out of their 38 games and amassing a highly-impressive 100 points. Consequently, they did not need to make many improvements to their squad but have not been afraid to splash the cash as they swooped for Leicester City wideman, Riyad Mahrez.
Guardiola’s troops have not had the best pre-season compared to their own monumental standards. They have lost to both Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, however, did manage to edge past Bayern Munich in their final pre-season game. The game against Chelsea though, gives Guardiola and Manchester City the opportunity to add to their already-impressive trophy cabinet. The Citizens have won the Community Shield on four occasions – the last being in 2012.
Team News
Record signing Mahrez could potentially miss out at Wembley due to an injury suffered in pre-season. The Algerian is a slight doubt with an ankle problem. Phil Foden and Aymeric Laporte are also potential doubts. Benjamin Mendy will not be included due to a muscle injury.
Key Facts to Consider
- Chelsea have the better record between the two teams (W66, D39, L54)
- Manchester City won the last clash between the two 1-0
- Both teams have won the Community Shield four times but have both lost in their last appearance
- The two met each other in the Community Shield in 2012 with Manchester City winning 3-2
- Manchester City could notch three consecutive clean sheets against Chelsea for only the second time
Conclusion
Whilst Manchester City will by no means find it easy against Chelsea at Wembley, the Community Shield should be heading to the Etihad Stadium. There will be a few teething problems for Sarri’s troops as they adapt to his demands and system and the Sky Blues should take advantage.
Prediction: Manchester City to win to nil
Odds: 56/19
Bookmaker: 888Sport
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