The season is fast approaching and Grosvenor Sport ambassador Jamie O’Hara casts his eye over the first opportunity for silverware for both Manchester clubs in the Community Shield, taking place on Saturday.
As the excitement builds, O’Hara shares his insights on what to expect in this weekend’s clash for the first trophy of the season ahead.
Manchester City vs Manchester United
Manchester City
I don’t think Manchester City’s squad is as strong as it has been in previous seasons. Losing Julian Alvarez without a replacement is a significant blow. While he was often a bench player, he scored 19 goals, whether starting or coming off the bench, and played an important role in the team’s dynamics. Erling Haaland remains the main man, but Alvarez’s departure weakens the team considerably.
Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to strengthen and could challenge Manchester City even more fiercely for the Premier League title this season.
The Community Shield is usually a free-flowing game, and Manchester City often struggle in it as they find their rhythm post-break. Despite this, I still believe they will be too strong for Manchester United. Jack Grealish has looked promising in pre-season, and Erling Haaland, who didn’t play in the Euros like Grealish, is fresh and ready to perform. I can see them featuring as key players in this game.
Manchester United
I don’t have high expectations for Manchester United this season; I think they will struggle. The club is plagued by injuries again, with a new 18-year-old star breaking his foot shortly after signing. Rasmus Højlund is also out for six to eight weeks, which is unfortunate as he needed a strong start to the season.
Manchester United need to address their planning issues as they enter the season without a full-strength squad. The persistent injury problems can’t be coincidental; it could be due to overly intense training or poor scheduling. Erik ten Hag is already facing significant challenges, and I doubt he will last the whole season as manager. It’s a tough situation for him, dealing with an incomplete squad and continuous injuries. The pressure at Manchester United is immense.
Their pre-season performances haven’t been impressive, and I expect them to struggle in the upcoming game. The quick turnaround for this match seems to favour Manchester City more than Manchester United.
Score prediction – Manchester City 3 – 1 Manchester United 10/1