Community Shield brings hopes and fears but also an end to summer of civility

The article discusses the anticipation and concerns surrounding the upcoming Community Shield, which marks the beginning of the English football season. The author notes that the Community Shield signifies the end of a "brilliant summer of sport" and the return to the "cynicism" of club football. The article highlights that while the summer saw successes like the Lionesses and Alcaraz's victories, the return of the Premier League means the end of this period of "civility" and the start of nine months of "hopes and fears" for teams and fans. The author also comments on the recent Club World Cup, which they describe as "unlovable fare" that desperately sought authenticity through its mix of celebrity and Saudi Arabian money. Overall, the article suggests that the Community Shield represents both the excitement and trepidation of the new football season, as well as the closing of a more positive sporting summer.