Mikel Arteta praised his Arsenal players for their determination in defending the Premier League title after a resounding 3-0 victory against Manchester City in the Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. This match marked a significant moment for Enzo Maresca, who faced his first major challenge as City's manager.

• Riccardo Calafiori scored just 24 seconds into the game, setting a record for the fastest goal in the competition since 1968.
• Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard added to the scoreline, with Ødegaard sealing the win shortly after halftime.

The defeat was particularly painful for City, representing the joint-heaviest loss for a manager in their first match, echoing the 4-1 loss to Arsenal in 1906.

Arteta expressed his satisfaction, stating, "I am obviously extremely happy with the performance, the result and winning the first trophy. We talked about the desire we have to start the season and to show ourselves how much we want it."

He highlighted the role of Christos Tzolis, who contributed to all three goals, calling him "a really intelligent boy" with exceptional skills in critical areas of the pitch.

Captain Ødegaard echoed his coach's sentiments, emphasizing the team's readiness for the upcoming season and their ambition to win consecutive titles:

We showed our level today. We’re serious and we want to do it again.

On the other side, Maresca acknowledged the pressing need for new signings as they prepare for their league opener against Bournemouth. He remained optimistic despite the defeat, stating, "It’s just the beginning; we have many things that we need to do better."