In order to prevent a boycott by supporters of Manchester City and Arsenal, the Football Association (FA) has shifted the Community Shield kickoff time to 4 pm.

The game was initially billed to start at 5:30 pm, leaving supporters furious.

The Football Supporters Association (FSA) warned the FA there would “undoubtedly” be empty seats if the game wasn’t brought forward.

In a statement, the FA said: “The 2023 FA Community Shield between Manchester City and Arsenal at Wembley Stadium will now kick off at 16:00 BST on Sunday 6 August. The new earlier kickoff time for the traditional ‘curtain raiser’ of the domestic season has been agreed following consultation with our broadcast partners, the local authorities, police, and the competing clubs.

“The decision to move the kickoff time was taken following full consideration of the transport challenges for fans returning to Manchester after the match. Ticketing details for the 2023 FA Community Shield will be announced at the earliest opportunity.”