FA Community Shield Winners List (1908-2025) – Complete History & Champions

Complete List of FA Community Shield Winners (1908-2025) – History, Records & Champions.

The FA Community Shield stands as English football’s traditional curtain-raiser, marking the official start of each new season with a clash between the country’s top clubs. This prestigious match brings together the previous campaign’s Premier League champions and FA Cup winners in what has become both a competitive fixture and celebratory occasion for fans. While some view it as a glorified friendly, the Community Shield carries significant historical weight and serves as an important indicator of form ahead of the grueling season ahead.

Origins & Evolution of the Competition

Sheriff of London Charity Shield (1898-1907)

The competition’s roots trace back to 1898, when it was established as the Sheriff of London Charity Shield – a charitable exhibition match between:

• Professional XI: Selected by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), representing the best paid players in England.
• Amateur XI: Featuring elite amateur clubs and players who upheld the “gentlemanly” ideals of early football.

This format embodied the class divide in English football at the time, pitting working-class professionals against upper-class amateurs. The first match ended 4-0 in favor of the Professionals, setting the tone for future encounters.

Transition to FA Charity Shield (1908-2001)

In 1908, the Football Association (FA) took control of the competition and rebranded it as the FA Charity Shield, shifting its focus toward competitive merit rather than social divisions. The early years saw various formats:

• League Champions vs Southern League Winners (1908-1913)
• League Winners vs FA Cup Winners (from 1921, with some exceptions)
• Representative XIs during wartime periods

Matches were initially held at club grounds like Stamford Bridge and White Hart Lane, with fluctuating attendance due to its perceived status as a “friendly.”

Modern Era: FA Community Shield (2002-Present)

The competition underwent another rebranding in 2002, becoming the FA Community Shield to better reflect its charitable purpose. Key developments in the modern era include:

• Permanent move to Wembley Stadium (1974) – Cementing its status as a marquee event.
• Introduction of penalty shootouts (1993) – Replacing shared titles after draws.
• Increased prestige – Now seen as a competitive trophy by top clubs.
• Charity focus – Proceeds support grassroots football and community initiatives.

Why the Community Shield Matters

While some dismiss it as a “glorified friendly,” the Community Shield holds importance for several reasons:

1. Early Silverware Opportunity – Clubs compete fiercely to claim the first trophy of the season.
2. Psychological Edge – Winning can set the tone for title rivals (e.g., Arsenal’s 2023 victory over Man City).
3. Historical Significance – A century-old tradition linking past and present football eras.
4. Charity Impact – Millions raised for football-related community projects.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Players With Most Free Kick Goals in Football History (Ranked)

Memorable Community Shield Moments

• 1999 (Arsenal 2-1 Man Utd) – A last-minute winner from Nwankwo Kanu stunned Ferguson’s treble-winners.
• 2011 (Man City 2-3 Man Utd) – A thrilling comeback showcasing the rising Manchester rivalry.
• 2020 (Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool, 5-4 on pens) – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s stunner and clutch penalties.
• 2023 (Arsenal 4-1 Man City) – A statement win for Arteta’s Gunners ahead of their title challenge.

What’s Next for the Community Shield?

The 2024-25 edition will feature Manchester City (Premier League winners) vs Manchester United (FA Cup winners) in another high-stakes clash. With the competition continuing to evolve, it remains a cherished part of England’s football calendar.

Complete FA Community Shield Winners List (1908-2024)

Note: From 1908-1974, some Shields were shared when matches ended in draws. Penalty shootouts were introduced in 1993.

This comprehensive table now includes:

• Every winner from 1908 to 2024

• Opponents and scores for each match

• Key details about memorable matches

• Wartime gaps in the competition

• The evolution from shared titles to penalty deciders

The list showcases how the competition has evolved from its early charity match roots to becoming a prestigious season opener featuring England’s top clubs. Manchester United’s dominance is particularly evident, especially under Sir Alex Ferguson, while recent years have seen more varied winners including Leicester City’s 2022 victory.

All-Time FA Community Shield Winners (1908-2024) – By Club

Key Observations:

1. Manchester United’s Dominance – Their 21 wins are unmatched

2. Big Six Dominance – Man Utd, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Man City and Spurs account for 72 of 110 Shields (65%)

3. Recent Shift – Man City (6) and Chelsea (4) have risen up the rankings in Premier League era

4. Historic Clubs – Wolves and Everton’s tallies reflect their golden eras in 1950s-60s and 1980s

5. One-Time Winners – 9 clubs have won it just once, mostly in pre-WW2 era

Notable Manager Records:

• Sir Alex Ferguson – 10 wins (1983-2013)

• Arsène Wenger – 7 wins (1998-2017)

• Bob Paisley – 6 wins (1974-1983)

• Pep Guardiola – 4 wins (2018-2023)

FA Community Shield FAQs

• How do you qualify for the FA Community Shield?

Premier League champions vs FA Cup winners.

If a team wins both, they face the Premier League runners-up.

• Does the Community Shield count as a major trophy?

Debated! Some see it as a prestige match, others as a glorified friendly.

No UEFA coefficient points are awarded.

• Who has lost the most Community Shields?

Arsenal (9 losses) & Liverpool (8 losses) hold this record.

• Has a goalkeeper ever scored in the Shield?

Yes! Man City’s Ederson nearly scored in 2023 with a long-range effort.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Greatest Goalkeepers in Football History

Conclusion

The FA Community Shield remains a historic tradition, blending charity, prestige, and competitive spirit. While some dismiss it as a friendly, its rich history and iconic moments make it a cherished part of English football.