Is Arsenal finally ready to challenge?

In the days leading up today’s Community Shield clash with Chelsea, there was much talk about the importance of the match, particularly for Arsenal. In truth, the onus was always on Wenger’s men, with today’s win breaking an ugly skid of 13 matches without a win against Mourinho.

It was Arsenal’s first win against Chelsea since 2011 as well and today was always going to be a case of whether or not Arsenal can finally beat the reigning champs.

That they did, and the dejection on the face of the Chelsea players afterward went some way to displaying that perhaps the tides are changing. Today’s win was more than a Community Shield winner’s medal, it was a monkey off of Arsenal’s back and a much needed moral booster.

Much likes last year’s away wins over City and United, the triumph was a mental hurdle overcome, and proof that Arsenal have the ability to mix it with the so called big boys.

The manner in which the match was won will bring encouragement as well. Barring a few glaring chances, Arsenal were successful in stifling Chelsea and never really looked in danger.

Still, some context is needed. There were of course no points on the line, and Chelsea would surely concede a Community Shield if it mean they were to lift the league title once more come May. Diego Costa was a noticeable omission as well and there is a sense that Mourinho’s men will be a totally different preposition come September.

Regardless, this achievement will go some way to sparking what promises to be a spirited run at the title for Arsenal. The message from the Arsenal camp this summer has been clear, to start the season off on high right from the word go. Wenger’s army ruthlessly dispatched of their opponents, ripping teams apart with the form and fitness of a side in mid season.

Arsenal won 4 out of 4 matches, outscoring their opponents 14 to 1. It is clear Wenger’s men are keen to avoid repeating the slow start to last season that effectively cost them the title. Arsenal are on course to put that right this time around, and knocking off the league champions should go some way to keeping them on track.