Manchester City emerged victorious in the 2024 Community Shield final, securing a win against rivals Manchester United in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at Wembley Stadium. The match marked Jadon Sancho's return to English football, with the forward missing a critical penalty, contrasting with City defender Manuel Akanji scoring the decisive spot-kick.

Alejandro Garnacho initially put United ahead in the 82nd minute, only for Bernardo Silva to equalize late in the game, sending it to penalties. The victory ends City's tough run in the Community Shield, avoiding a potential fourth consecutive defeat. However, the age-old question remains - can winning the Community Shield bring forth bad luck for a Premier League title chase?

The latest statistics suggest a trend - only one Community Shield winner since 2011 has gone on to clinch the Premier League trophy in the same season. Manchester City achieved this in the 2018-19 campaign, raising questions about whether Pep Guardiola's side can overcome the purported "curse" this season.

Social media erupted with mixed reactions following the match, with contrasting views on City's dominance in the league and the impact of winning the Community Shield. Some fans expressed their optimism about City's potential league triumph, citing their strong squad and coaching staff. Others debated the strength of City's current squad, highlighting key departures and aging players, speculating on potential challengers for the title.

As the 2024/25 Premier League season approaches, all eyes will be on Manchester City to see if they can defy the odds, break the Community Shield curse, and secure another league triumph under Pep Guardiola's guidance.

*SOURCE: Sporting News*