Arsenal’s Community Shield win must make Man City take note as new signing steals show

Arsenal: Arteta benefits from new law changes in Community Shield win There was much derision on social media channels about the manner of Arsenal’s celebrations after winning the Community Shield on Sunday. Spraying champagne and hoisting the silver, so the arguments went, should be saved for meaningful and hard-fought victories, not pre-season friendlies and certainly not ones delivered with a stoppage time deflection and a fairly dismal penalty display from Man City. But as their beaten opponents will tell you, any trophy should be celebrated and used to add momentum and belief to the group. And while Arsenal showed that they probably still have work to do to catch up with City, it is difficult to construe that this was anything other than a positive step and must be used as such. Arsenal had not beaten City in eight attempts before yesterday and although this slightly fortunate draw and shootout win finished all square this was an improvement. There were also positive signs that Mikel Arteta’s summer spending has not been misplaced. Declan Rice was over-priced at £105million but had a solid game moving vertically through the midfield, sitting alongside Thomas Partey deep at times but shifting into a more forward position when Arsenal pressed. Bukayo Saka and Ben White combined well on the right flank with what moments of discomfort City endured mainly coming from their efforts. Arsenal beat Man City on penalties to secure the Community Shield And Kai Havertz, whilst no centre forward, but did well and, most importantly, looked strong on occasions holding the ball up. With better finishing he might have had two goals. When Gabriel Jesus returns – he gave a thumbs up when asked how he was feeling walking through the media mixed zone after the game – he will provide the focal point and Havertz will presumably drop a touch into the pocket where his skill will be more effective. By far the most promising effort of the three new signings came from Jurien Timber who produced a confident and skilful display of progressive full back play on the left flank. Up against Kyle Walker he was tested but looks a player who can do well in the Premier League – fast, forward thinking and athletic. SUBSCRIBE Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info Jurrien Timber impressed in Arsenal’s red and white Trending