Ruben Dias has been named Manchester City captain for the Community Shield clash with Arsenal, as Enzo Maresca confirmed the permanent captaincy decision will be made after the transfer window closes. Both Dias and Erling Haaland start for City in this afternoon's match in Cardiff.
Maresca on captaincy decision
Speaking to TNT Sports, Maresca said: "I said the other day in the press conference, the captain, we're going to decide the full captain when the transfer window is closed."
"At the moment, Ruben is here, Erling is here, the other one is Rodri but unfortunately he is not with us because he's recovering. But, we will see when the transfer window closes."
Rodri's future uncertain
Rodri's future at City remains in doubt as Barcelona continue to show interest. The Spaniard returned to Manchester on Friday after winning the World Cup with Spain. He is not in Cardiff because he underwent a minor back operation following the international tournament.
When asked if there were any updates on Rodri's future, Maresca smiled and replied: "No, I'm sorry."
Strong line-up for Community Shield
City arrive at the Community Shield following a tour of Asia this month. They lost on penalties to Inter Milan in Hong Kong, before beating K-League All Stars and Atletico Madrid in Seoul.
Maresca has opted for a stronger line-up than many had been expecting. Elliot Anderson has been handed his debut by the City boss, while returning goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli has been named on the bench. Nico O'Reilly and Haaland start despite returning to training this week. Tijjani Reijnders is not in the squad as his move to Al Qadsiah edges closer.
