Community Shield: Man City vs Man United - Key players to watch, tactics, injuries - Match Preview

The 2024/25 English football season kicks off with a tantalising Manchester derby as Premier League champions Manchester City face FA Cup winners Manchester United in the Community Shield.

This match not only offers the first silverware of the season but also provides a glimpse into both teams' preparedness for the upcoming campaign, with both sides dealing with notable absences.

After a record-breaking debut season with 52 goals in all competitions, Erling Haaland followed that up by firing Man City to an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title with 27 goals to emerge as top scorer.

Scored in both Manchester derbies last season in the Premier League (3 goals total) but was caged in the FA Cup when both teams last met at Wembley.

He will be looking to break that curse, with his physicality and clinical finishing set to test United's potentially makeshift defence.

The playmaking genius continues to prove decisive for the Cityzens after topping the assist chart for the club with 10 in the PL.

De Bruyne continues to wow with his exceptional vision and passing range, and is especially dangerous with through balls.

Fondly called KDB, he will be crucial in orchestrating City's attacks in the absence of several key players.

Man City’s Mr versatility may need to cover multiple positions due to the absences of some key players for Pep Guardiola.

His work rate and ability to retain possession will be vital in midfield as the champions look to reaffirm their superiority over their city rivals.

Guardiola may need to adjust his tactics due to the absence of key players but i don’t expect less than his normal possession-based style, but potentially with less pressing intensity.

We could see some youth players or fringe squad members getting an opportunity or perhaps new signings led by Brazilian star Savinho.

The Portuguese magnifico scored 15 goals and 13 assists in all competitions last season as United endured a difficult campaign before the FA Cup win.

The leader of the Red Devils will be looking to lead by example and his creativity will be crucial, especially with several defensive players doubtful.

Fernandes played a key role the last time both sides clashed at the same venue when he set up Kobbie Mainoo for that decisive winner.

With a career-best season of 30 goals across all competitions, Rashford endured a season to forget after he scored just eight last season for United.

He will be looking to return to that 2022/23 level starting with such a big game like this against a top-six side and rival.

His pace on the counterattack could exploit spaces behind City's potentially reshuffled defence.

The Ivorian playmaker impressed during pre-season and is set for a potential breakout campaign.

His dribbling skills and creativity could provide a spark in United's attack. Look for him to make impactful substitute appearances if not starting.

The new signing who could make his debut for Manchester United is another player to look out for.

Manager Erik Ten Hag has confirmed he is motivated and will play a role against City at Wembley.

Zirkzee offers a different dimension to United's attack with his hold-up and link-up plays.

Ten Hag is likely to employ a counter-attacking strategy, utilising the pace of Rashford and potentially Amad.

Expect a disciplined defensive shape, possibly in a 4-2-3-1 formation or perhaps 4-2-2-2 as was the case in the FA Cup despite the absence of a key cog - Sofyan Amrabat in midfield.

The Dutchman who has been given a redemption chance after extending his stay may need to adjust tactics based on available personnel, especially in defence.

Both teams are still in pre-season mode, so match sharpness could be an issue.

United's defensive reshuffling due to injuries could be a significant factor.

City missing several key players may impact their usual fluid style of play.

Pep Guardiola will need to show his tactical flexibility given the absences in his squad.

Erik ten Hag faces the challenge of organising a potentially makeshift defence while also integrating new signings.

This Community Shield clash promises to be an intriguing tactical battle, with both managers needing to adapt to their available personnel.

While City enters as favourites given their recent dominance, their absences and United's potential to spring surprises with players like Amad could make for an unpredictable and exciting match.