Arsenal have started the new season with silverware after thrashing Manchester City 3-0 to win the 2026 FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
The Gunners made a sensational start, taking the lead after just 25 seconds through Riccardo Calafiori, who finished after a clever pass from Myles Lewis-Skelly.
City enjoyed more possession but struggled to turn their control of the ball into clear chances, with Arsenal remaining dangerous on the counter.
Kai Havertz doubled Arsenal’s advantage in the 28th minute, heading past Gianluigi Donnarumma after a well-worked move involving Martin Odegaard and Tzolis.
Manchester City had opportunities to respond, with Erling Haaland and Phil Foden both denied by David Raya, but Arsenal went into half-time with a commanding 2-0 lead.
Mikel Arteta’s side continued to control proceedings after the break and extended their advantage just three minutes into the second half.
Odegaard produced a composed finish past Donnarumma in the 48th minute to make it 3-0 and effectively settle the contest.
City struggled to find a way back into the game despite several changes from new manager Enzo Maresca, while Arsenal remained comfortable defensively.
Antoine Semenyo also featured for Manchester City and came close to scoring in the second half, but Raya denied his effort.
Arsenal saw out the remaining minutes comfortably to secure a convincing victory and their first trophy of the new campaign.
The defeat, meanwhile, gives Maresca a difficult start to his tenure at Manchester City, with the former Leicester and Chelsea boss now facing plenty to ponder before the Premier League season begins.
Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Manchester City is the biggest margin of victory in a Community Shield game since 2014, when the Gunners beat Man City by the same scoreline.
The Community Shield is Arsenal’s first silverware of the 2026/27 season and a strong early statement from Arteta’s Premier League champions.
