It rarely sets the tone for the season ahead and it may not be considered a major trophy by many but, in the context of how last season ended for Arsenal, the psychological impact of their Community Shield win against Manchester City on Sunday should not be underestimated.
After Cole Palmer's stunning goal, the Gunners battled back through Leandro Trossard's last-gasp equaliser before Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri missed spot-kicks in the shootout and Arsenal converted all of theirs to secure the first piece of silverware of the season.
Arsenal led the Premier League for 248 days last season - no side has spent as long at the summit of the English top flight and failed to win it - but as Mikel Arteta's side capitulated, City charged to stage a successful defence of the title.