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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided a major squad update ahead of this weekend’s FA Community Shield clash against Manchester United.
Guardiola’s side begin their 2024/25 campaign at Wembley Stadium this weekend, facing local rivals Manchester United in an FA Community Shield clash, in a repeat of May’s Emirates FA Cup Final.
Manchester City, who won the Premier League title for a fourth successive season, suffered a surprise loss to Manchester United in the FA Cup Final last season, losing 1-2, following first-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
The Sky Blues had won both Premier League meetings against Erik ten Hag’s side last season, but also suffered defeat in last season’s FA Community Shield against Arsenal, losing on penalties, after Cole Palmer’s goal was cancelled out by Leandro Trossard.
Manchester City have regularly featured in the FA Community Shield, but haven’t won the competition since 2019, beating Liverpool in a penalty shoot-out, after a 1-1 draw at Wembley Stadium.
Saturday’s clash will be Guardiola’s 21st at Wembley Stadium as Manchester City boss, with the 53-year-old out of contract at the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season, and currently coy on his plans beyond 2025.
The Catalan coach had only a handful of first-team players available during a recent four-match tour of the United States, but has welcomed back a number of other players to training at the City Football Academy this week.
Manchester City will be without England trio Kyle Walker, John Stones and Phil Foden for the fixture, as well as Spain midfielder Rodri, revealed Guardiola during his pre-match press conference.
Julian Alvarez will also be absent for the Sky Blues, as the 24-year-old finalises a club-record transfer to Atletico Madrid.
Saturday’s clash could also provide a first-team debut to summer signing Savinho, who joined from ES Troyes for an initial £21 million.
