Enzo Maresca says his Manchester City squad is fit for the Community Shield clash with Arsenal on Sunday.
Community Shield: City’s seven victories to date
But the new City boss says that he needs to consider that many of his squad have only just returned after being given time off after playing in the World Cup.
The Italian will have the opportunity to fight for his first trophy since taking charge when we face the Gunners at the Principality Stadium for the 15:00 (UK) kick-off.
Players that reached the quarter-finals or beyond missed our pre-season tour to Asia, which could potentially impact team selection for the game.
Of those that did travel to Hong Kong and South Korea, winger Ryan McAidoo is the only player to suffer a setback, picking up a slight shoulder from the first game against Inter Milan.
“The only one is Ryan McAidoo who in pre-season had a small problem but he has already worked with us,” Maresca said at his pre-match news conference.
“So everyone is fit knowing that some of them just arrived two days ago.”
Fans got an opportunity to see the players at our City Are Back open training session at the Joie Stadium.
Erling Haaland sat out some of the training but Maresca says he is fine for the start of the season.
“Yes he was okay,” he added. “He just had some small things behind his heels but he’s okay.”
Maresca confirmed that Rodri is back at the CFA after successful minor back surgery following the World Cup.
“He’s now in rehab,” the boss added. “When he’s ready to start training session with us, this is the problem for him.”
Premier League 2026/27 home tickets now on sale
General admission tickets for Manchester City’s home 2026/27 Premier League fixtures are now on sale to Premium, Matchday and Junior Members.
Season Ticket Members, meanwhile, are now also able to purchase additional tickets for selected games.
Premier League match-by-match ticket prices for junior and adult Matchday Members have been retained at the same rate for a third consecutive season.
It promises to be another thrilling campaign for the Blues as we enter a new era under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, who takes over from Pep Guardiola in the hotseat.
Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium for our Premier League fixtures now!