English FA names referees for Arsenal, City Community Shield clash

The Football Association has appointed Sam Barrott as the referee for the 2026 FA Community Shield clash between Premier League champions Arsenal and FA Cup winners Manchester City. The match is scheduled to be held at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday, August 16, with kick-off at 3pm BST.

Barrott, affiliated with the West Riding FA, will officiate the season's opening fixture. He will be assisted by Craig Taylor (Staffordshire FA) and Blake Antrobus (Manchester FA). Farai Hallam (Surrey FA) has been named the fourth official, and Alistair Nelson (Nottinghamshire FA) will serve as the reserve assistant referee. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team will consist of James Bell (Sheffield & Hallamshire FA) as VAR and Tim Wood (Gloucestershire FA) as AVAR.

This game represents Manchester City's first Community Shield appearance since 2024. The club will begin a new era under head coach Enzo Maresca, following Pep Guardiola's departure. Arsenal returns to the Community Shield for the first time since 2023, when they defeated Manchester City on penalties after a goalless draw at Wembley.

The fixture serves as the official curtain-raiser for the 2026-27 English football season. Last season, Crystal Palace secured a notable victory against Premier League champions Liverpool in the 2025 FA Community Shield, winning 3-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

“

The match officials for the 2026 FA Community Shield between Manchester City and Arsenal have been appointed.