Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca says his squad is fit for Sunday’s Community Shield against Arsenal, although several players have only recently returned from their post-World Cup breaks.
City’s players who reached the quarter-finals or beyond at the 2026 World Cup missed the club’s pre-season tour of Asia, leaving Maresca with limited preparation time ahead of his first competitive match in charge.
Ryan McAidoo is the only player to have suffered an injury setback during pre-season, with the winger picking up a minor shoulder problem during City’s opening friendly against Inter.
“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 press conference.
“So everyone is fit knowing that some of them just arrived two days ago.”
Maresca gives Man City fitness update on Haaland and Rodri
Erling Haaland also missed part of training recently, but Maresca confirmed the striker is available for the Community Shield.
“Yes he was okay,” he said. “He just had some small things behind his heels but he’s okay.”
The City boss also provided an update on Rodri, who has returned to the City Football Academy after undergoing minor back surgery following the World Cup.
The Spain international is continuing his rehabilitation as Barcelona continue to pursue his signature, with City having already rejected two offers for the midfielder.
“He’s now in rehab,” Maresca said. “When he’s ready to start training session with us, this is the problem for him.”
Rodri’s absence will be closely monitored after City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders agreed a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah.
City face Arsenal at the Principality Stadium on Sunday as Maresca looks to begin his tenure by winning the first available trophy of the season.