Man City welcome six stars back ahead of Arsenal Community Shield clash
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineManchester City have received a major boost ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Arsenal after six senior players returned to training at the City Football Academy on Wednesday.
The returning players reported back following their post-World Cup breaks as Enzo Maresca stepped up preparations for his first competitive domestic fixture since taking charge at the Etihad Stadium.
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland and Belgian winger Jeremy Doku were among those who returned to training, alongside England trio Elliot Anderson, Marc Guehi and Nico O’Reilly.
French playmaker Rayan Cherki also joined the group as City moved closer to building a full-strength squad ahead of their trip to Cardiff to face Arsenal.
The return of the players has provided Maresca with a timely boost as the new season approaches, with several of the returning stars expected to play important roles in the campaign.
City have also confirmed squad numbers for some of their new arrivals ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Anderson will wear the No.5 shirt, taking over the number previously worn by John Stones, while Guehi has been handed the No.6 shirt after previously wearing No.15 during City’s Carabao Cup and FA Cup double-winning campaign last season.
There has also been a change in the goalkeeping department, with Gianluigi Donnarumma taking the No.1 shirt after previously wearing No.25.
The change follows the permanent departure of James Trafford to Leeds United.
Incoming goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli has also linked up with the squad and will wear the No.28 shirt.
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However, Rodri was notably absent from Wednesday’s training session amid continued speculation over his future at City.
The Spanish midfielder, who was regarded as the best player at this summer’s World Cup, has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona.
City are reportedly holding firm on a £60 million asking price for the 30-year-old.
Maresca had confirmed last week that Rodri, who underwent minor back surgery following the World Cup, was expected to return to the club on Friday.
It remains to be seen whether the Spaniard will report as scheduled or be granted additional time amid the uncertainty surrounding his future.
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