Ramsdale feels Arsenal win over City has removed ‘mental block’ ahead of new season

Updated 06/08/2023 at 21:04 GMT

Arsenal found Manchester City too strong in the Premier League title race last season, but exacted revenge of sorts with victory in the Community Shield at Wembley. Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City looked on course for victory thanks to a goal from Cole Palmer, but Leandro Trossard netted a late leveller and The Gunners secured the win in a penalty shootout.

‘We were close’ – Guardiola reacts to City’s Community Shield defeat to Arsenal at Wembley

Aaron Ramsdale feels Arsenal have removed a “mental block” with their victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield.

The Gunners were staring defeat at Wembley in the face, as they trailed to a Cole Palmer goal heading into injury time.

Ramsdale played his part with a save from Rodri in the shootout, along with a couple of important stops in normal time, as The Gunners celebrated a first piece of silverware since lifting the same trophy in 2020.

Victory was Arsenal’s first over City in three years, and sets them up for the Premier League season in style.

The Gunners kick off their Premier League season in front of the TNT Sports cameras against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, and Ramsdale is looking forward with optimism.

“They are a bit behind us in their pre-season, but what it means to us is a statement to us that we can go and beat them,” Ramsdale told ITV.

“It is a marker to know we can go and beat Man City in a big game when it matters.

“I don’t know what it will be like going through the season, but we have now got that mental block gone and we are ready now to push on all season long.”

Aaron Ramsdale saves a penalty from Rodri in the penalty shootout as Arsenal beat Manchester City to win the FA Community Shield at Wembley Stadium on August 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)

Image credit: Getty Images

Declan Rice secured a first piece of silverware since moving to Arsenal in the summer, and he is looking to keep the forward momentum.

“I am absolutely buzzing,” Rice said. “It is what I envisioned on joining the club.

“I am sure with this team we have got, the manager and the staff, we are so together and we can achieve anything.

“We just need to stay focused and stay together.”

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