Community Shield Preview: Haaland Set to Play, Rodri's Participation Unlikely

2026-08-16

In today's Community Shield match, Manchester City will take on Arsenal. According to the Evening Standard, Norwegian striker Erling Haaland is confirmed to be available for selection, while midfielder Rodri is considered less likely to feature due to injury concerns.

Haaland has been in outstanding form, scoring two goals in three encounters against Arsenal last season. Although he sat out the final stages of a public training session on Thursday, raising some concerns among supporters, City's new head coach Enzo Maresca reassured fans at Friday's pre-match press conference: "Haaland is fine; he has a minor issue behind his ear, but overall he's in good shape and will be included in the squad for Cardiff."

Conversely, Rodri has returned to training following minor back surgery. Maresca noted that while Rodri has prepared to rejoin the team, the chances of him playing in this match are slim, particularly given Barcelona’s active interest in acquiring him once again.