Seven players at risk of missing Arsenal vs. Man City Community Shield clash

Arsenal and Manchester City are grappling with player fitness concerns as they prepare to face each other in the Community Shield on Sunday, August 16, 2026. At least seven players are at risk of missing the season's curtain-raiser at Wembley Stadium.

Manchester City, under new manager Enzo Maresca following Pep Guardiola's departure, aims to start the season with a trophy. However, their preparations have been hampered by injuries. Rodri, who recently represented Spain at the World Cup, underwent minor back surgery and is unlikely to be ready. Jack Grealish is also doubtful after recovering from a leg injury sustained during his loan spell at Everton last season. Ryan McAidoo faces fitness issues after participating in pre-season, and Savinho is unwell, according to Maresca.

"We will see; training is scheduled for the afternoon, so we will monitor his condition today and then decide if he can play against Arsenal," Maresca stated regarding Savinho.

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We will see; training is scheduled for the afternoon, so we will monitor his condition today and then decide if he can play against Arsenal.

On the Arsenal side, manager Mikel Arteta received some positive news regarding Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice. Both players are expected to be available despite a slightly delayed pre-season due to their World Cup commitments.

However, Arsenal's defense faces significant challenges. William Saliba is still recovering from a back injury that ended his World Cup prematurely. Jurrien Timber has not fully recovered from a groin issue that has plagued him since March and caused him to miss the World Cup. Arteta indicated that Timber is progressing well and has returned to on-field training, but requires several more weeks to regain full fitness. "Jurrien's development is very good, he's back on the pitch. We are increasing the intensity of certain movements, especially regarding volume and training load," Arteta said, expressing hope for Timber's return to team training within one to two weeks.

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Jurrien's development is very good, he's back on the pitch. We are increasing the intensity of certain movements, especially regarding volume and training load.