Arsenal have fired an early warning to their Premier League rivals after producing a stunning 3-0 victory over Manchester City to lift the 2026 FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

The Gunners needed just 24 seconds to strike, with Riccardo Calafiori finishing brilliantly after being played through by Myles Lewis-Skelly. The dream start gave Mikel Arteta’s side immediate control and left City scrambling for answers.

Arsenal doubled their advantage in the 28th minute when Kai Havertz headed home, with City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma unable to keep the effort out. Martin Ødegaard then delivered the knockout blow shortly after half-time, scoring in the 48th minute to complete a ruthless Arsenal performance.

For Manchester City, it was a nightmare beginning to the Enzo Maresca era, with the former Chelsea boss suffering defeat in his first competitive match after taking over from Pep Guardiola.

Arsenal, meanwhile, looked sharp, hungry, and ready for another trophy-laden campaign. After winning the Premier League last season, Arteta’s men have immediately sent a message: the champions are not giving up their crown without a fight.