Does the Community Shield matter? Ultimately, given its role as a glorified friendly match, the answer is an obvious "no." It's nice to win but not so painful to lose. More importantly, it might just offer a few pointers to the new season.
For example, Chelsea's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Wembley last year saw Jose Mourinho adopt the sour persona he wore throughout the then-champions' pitiful defence of their title until his sacking in December.
Twelve months on, he is back, this time as Manchester United manager, with a new club whose FA Cup win booked them a spot at Wembley.