The FA Community Shield marks the official start of the English football season, a one-off match that pits the Premier League champions against the FA Cup winners. While some view it as a glorified friendly, for others, it's the first piece of silverware up for grabs, a chance to lay down an early marker for the season ahead.
The history of the competition, formerly known as the Charity Shield, stretches back over a century, and in that time, a select few clubs have dominated the honors board. Let's delve into the archives to see which Premier League teams have lifted the iconic shield the most, from the all-time leaders to the rising contenders.
The All-Time Champions: A History of Dominance
These clubs have not just won the Community Shield; they have defined its history with their long-standing success.
1. Manchester United (21 Trophies)
Unsurprisingly, Manchester United stand alone at the top of the list as the most successful club in the competition's history. With a staggering 21 titles, including four shared victories, their dominance is a testament to the club's trophy-laden history, particularly during the Sir Alex Ferguson era. United’s most recent triumph came in 2016, and they will be eager to add to their tally to cement their legacy even further.
2. Arsenal (17 Trophies)
The Gunners hold the second-highest number of Community Shield victories, with 17 titles. Their success has been more recent than Manchester United's, with a significant number of their triumphs coming under the management of Arsène Wenger and Mikel Arteta. Arsenal's last win in the competition was in 2023, where they defeated Manchester City, showcasing their ability to compete for silverware right at the start of the season.
3. Liverpool (16 Trophies)
Just behind Arsenal, Liverpool has an impressive record with 16 Community Shield titles. The Reds have enjoyed periods of dominance in the competition, particularly in the 1970s and 80s. Their most recent success came in 2022, when they overcame Manchester City to lift the shield, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry and their rich history in the competition.
The Respective Contenders: Chasing the Top Spot
While not at the very pinnacle, these teams have a proud history in the competition and remain key players.
4. Everton (9 Trophies)
Everton's presence in the top five is a reminder of their historical pedigree in English football. With nine titles, including one shared, the Toffees were a force to be reckoned with in the mid-20th century, claiming a number of their shields during the 1980s. Their last victory was in 1995.
5. Manchester City (7 Trophies)
The Premier League's most dominant side of the modern era, Manchester City, has been steadily climbing the all-time list. With their latest victory in 2024 against rivals Manchester United, they now have 7 titles. The team's recent successes highlight their dominance in both the Premier League and FA Cup, which are the two qualifying competitions for the shield.
6. Tottenham Hotspur (7 Trophies)
Tottenham Hotspur shares the fifth spot with Manchester City, also holding 7 trophies, including three shared titles. Most of their successes came in the mid-20th century, with their last win dating back to 1991. The club will be looking to break their long wait for this pre-season trophy.
Other Notable Premier League Teams
A number of other current Premier League teams have also had their moment in the Community Shield spotlight.
Chelsea (4 Trophies): The Blues have won the Community Shield on four occasions, with their most recent triumph in 2009.
Leicester City (2 Trophies): A surprise victory in 2021 against Manchester City added to their solitary win in 1971.
Leeds United (2 Trophies): Leeds United secured their two titles in 1969 and 1992, showcasing their strength in different eras.
The FA Community Shield is a prestigious piece of English football history, and its list of winners reads like a "who's who" of the sport's greatest clubs. While Manchester United and Arsenal lead the way, the recent successes of Liverpool and Manchester City show that the trophy remains a highly sought-after prize. As the new season begins each year, the Community Shield offers a thrilling glimpse into the competitive spirit that defines the beautiful game in England.