Arsenal made a stunning start to the 2026–27 season by defeating Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. The Gunners took the lead after just 24 seconds when Riccardo Calafiori finished confidently following an excellent pass from Myles Lewis-Skelly. Kai Havertz doubled Arsenal’s advantage in the 28th minute, heading home after Christos Tzolis helped create the opportunity. Arsenal’s fast start and aggressive pressing left City struggling to establish control, while David Raya made important saves to protect his side’s clean sheet.

Martin Ødegaard completed the scoring just three minutes after half-time with a composed finish that left Gianluigi Donnarumma wrong-footed. Arsenal continued to look the more organised and dangerous team, with Tzolis particularly impressive after contributing two assists. Manchester City, playing their first competitive match under new manager Enzo Maresca, struggled to create clear chances and found Erling Haaland largely isolated. The emphatic victory gives Arsenal an early-season trophy and sends a powerful message that Mikel Arteta’s side are ready to defend their Premier League title.