Community Shield - Manager focus

Jose Mourinho's Chelsea had previously played an Arsenal side managed by Arsene Wenger 13 times without defeat. Mourinho's Blues beat the Gunners 6-0 in Wenger's 1,000th match as boss and the pair's fractious relationship became physical last season when the Frenchman shoved the Portuguese in another loss. This was anything but friendly between two rivals, two London clubs and two anticipated title rivals.

SELECTION

It was a case of deja vu - Diego Costa absent with a hamstring problem for Chelsea and Jack Wilshere out with an ankle injury for Arsenal - in many senses, with the sight many thought they would not see: Petr Cech lining up in goal for the Gunners after 11 years as a Blue. Loic Remy started instead of Costa and Wenger gave Theo Walcott a chance to prove his striker credentials.

APPROACH

Mourinho had played down the importance of the occasion and wore his training kit on the touchline, where he prowled with purpose. He folded his arms when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain scored as Wenger punched the air in celebration of Arsenal's first goal against Chelsea in 506 minutes, since January 2013. Arsenal seemed to have added steel, while Chelsea lacked width as their full-backs were pinned back defensively.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Mourinho threw Radamel Falcao into the action at half-time and Oscar replaced Ramires eight minutes into the second half. Next Kurt Zouma came on for Cesar Azpilicueta, out of position at left-back. Wenger had already swapped Walcott for Olivier Giroud, who should have scored a second. Mourinho tried to find an equaliser but could not.

VERDICT

Not since 2009/10 has the winner of the season curtain-raiser gone on to win the title and Mourinho, in particular, played down the game's relevance on the title race in the build-up. Arsenal won the Community Shield 12 months ago and finished third. The question remains if Wenger can deliver a first title in 12 years. At least he has answered the question on beating Mourinho.