Man Utd vs Man City: Community Shield Referee Named

The referee for the upcoming Manchester United vs Manchester City Community Shield match has been named, and fans are already expressing their opinions on the decision. The match, set to take place on August 7, 2022, will be officiated by none other than Michael Oliver, a seasoned Premier League referee.

Who is Michael Oliver?

Michael Oliver, born on October 20, 1985, is an English professional football referee who has been officiating in the Premier League since 2010. He has been involved in several high-profile matches, including the 2018 FA Cup Final between Chelsea and Manchester United. Despite his experience, Oliver has faced criticism in the past for his performances in big games.

Fan Reaction

As soon as the news broke that Michael Oliver would be officiating the Community Shield match, fans from both Manchester United and Manchester City took to social media to share their thoughts. Some fans praised the decision, highlighting Oliver’s experience and professionalism, while others expressed concerns about his past performances in high-pressure matches.

Controversy Surrounding Oliver

Michael Oliver has been at the center of controversy on several occasions. One of the most notable incidents occurred during the 2018 FA Cup Final, where he awarded Chelsea a penalty after a challenge by Manchester United‘s Ander Herrera on Eden Hazard. The decision was heavily criticized by Manchester United fans and players, with some claiming that it was a dive by Hazard. Despite the controversy, Oliver was praised by many for his bravery in making the call.

What to Expect from the Match

The Community Shield match between Manchester United and Manchester City is set to be an intense and closely contested affair. Both teams have strengthened their squads during the summer transfer window, with Manchester United signing Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane, and Manchester City bringing in Jack Grealish. The match will be the first opportunity for fans to see these new signings in action, and it will also give an insight into how both teams will approach the upcoming Premier League season.

Conclusion

The naming of Michael Oliver as the referee for the Manchester United vs Manchester City Community Shield match has sparked a lot of debate among fans. While some have praised the decision, others have expressed concerns about his past performances. Regardless, the match is set to be an exciting encounter between two of the Premier League‘s top teams, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how the new signings perform and how the teams approach the game.

BBC Sport: Michael Oliver to referee Manchester United vs Manchester City Community Shield