Community Shield: Arsenal is in better position than City -Guardiola

By Sola Omoniyi, Lagos

Arsenal has an advantage over Manchester City in the Community Shield due to the treble winner’s hectic schedule during the closing stretch of the previous season, according to the manager, Pep Guardiola on Friday.

City had a busy season due to their successful runs in the Champions League and FA Cup, whilst Arsenal had a less hectic season and was pursuing Guardiola’s side for the Premier League crown.

City, who won their first Champions League title in June, will kick off their 2023-24 season on Sunday against runners-up Arsenal in the traditional Premier League season opener.

“The situation that we are in, we finished (last season) two weeks later than Arsenal and we started (this season) two weeks later. So, we are not in the best way,” the Spaniard told reporters.

“We struggle to restart every season but it’s fine, and hopefully our mentality can help us to be there and compete.”

Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal is attempting to reduce the gap at the top of the Premier League, and Guardiola feels the north London club has brought in players who can step right into the starting lineup.

The additions of England midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham United, Kai Havertz from rival Chelsea, and defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax Amsterdam have strengthened Arsenal’s core.

“Rice has decided to join Arsenal, and I wish him the best of luck.” He is an extremely lovely guy who is crucial to the England team.” Arsenal has acquired a very good player,” Guardiola stated.

“They didn’t buy players to bolster the squad; they bought starters.” I couldn’t have expected anything else.”

Guardiola has maintained his intention to keep England defender Kyle Walker, who has a year remaining on his City contract, despite interest from German heavyweights Bayern Munich.

Bernardo Silva is another of Guardiola’s important players who have been linked with a move away from the club, with La Liga winners Barcelona being tipped as prospective suitors.