FA Appoints Sam Barrott for Arsenal vs Manchester City Community Shield

The Football Association has named Sam Barrott as the referee for the 2026 FA Community Shield match between Premier League champions Arsenal and FA Cup winners Manchester City.

The season-opening fixture will take place at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on August 16, with kick-off scheduled for 3 p.m. BST.

Barrott will be assisted by Craig Taylor and Blake Antrobus, while Farai Hallam will serve as the fourth official.

Alistair Nelson has been appointed reserve assistant referee. The Video Assistant Referee team will consist of James Bell as VAR and Tim Wood as assistant VAR.

The match will mark Manchester City’s first appearance in the Community Shield since 2024.

The FA Cup holders will also begin a new chapter under head coach Enzo Maresca following Pep Guardiola’s departure at the end of last season.

Arsenal return to the competition for the first time since 2023, when they defeated Manchester City on penalties after a goalless draw at Wembley.

The Community Shield traditionally serves as the curtain-raiser to the English football season, bringing together the reigning Premier League champions and FA Cup winners.

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