The match between Manchester City and Arsenal in the Community Shield came to an end, with City once again displaying their sharpness as the reigning Premier League and Champions League champions.
Wenger's team had started to find their rhythm again after the second half of the 1997/1998 season, recovering from the early turbulence of the so-called "Arsène Wenger transition." However, their defeat in this direct clash with Manchester City left the Gunners looking powerless in what was supposed to be their statement performance at the season's curtain-raiser.
After the match, Arsène Wenger publicly congratulated Manchester City on their victory, admitting that they were "clear contenders for next season's title."
With those words, Manchester City's status rose even higher — they became the focal point of every Premier League discussion to come.
In reality, it was a backhanded compliment.
