CLUB football is back with a bang as local rivals Manchester United and Manchester City face off at Wembley for a shot at lifting the Community Shield.
This match has arguably come at the worst time for the Red Devils as not only have they lost talisman Rasmus Hojlund and summer signing Leny Yoro long-term through injury.
But Erik Ten Hag’s men recently held a 3-0 pummelling at the hands of bitter rivals Liverpool.
To make matters worse, City will be oozing confidence – particularly Erling Haaland whose hat-trick inspired the Premier League champions to a 4-2 victory against Chelsea that same day.
And Pep Guardiola’s side got the better of United in two out of their three contests last season.
However, the Red Devils’ win fired them to an FA Cup triumph in June when not many gave them a prayer.
So with that being said, this highly-anticipated Community Shield encounter counter is far from a foregone conclusion.
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Manchester United vs Manchester City can be watched for FREE in the UK as long as you hold a valid TV license.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag will be delighted to welcome Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo back to the camp after their Euro 2024 final heartbreak with England.
However, the Red Devils will be without Rasmus Hojlund and Leny Yoro who both picked up long-term injuries.
While Tyrell Malacia is not scheduled to be back until October having not kicked a ball since May 2023 due to two rounds of knee surgery.
Elsewhere, Pep Guardiola would be without Ederson due to some “niggles” and Rico Lewis who was forced off in the Chelsea victory.
Rodri, Phil Foden, Kyle Walker and John Stones are also likely to be unavailable.
And there will be no Julian Alvarez who is on the verge of signing for Atletico Madrid.
However, Bernardo Silva and Kevin de Bruyne are set to return.
In 90 minutes
To lift the trophy
*Odds courtesy of Ladbrokes are correct at time of publication
