 Complete the following phrase:  In the 19992000 season, Arsenal participated in the Premier League. Despite the loss of striker Nicolas Anelka to Real Madrid, the club significantly strengthened in the summer, signing defenders Oleh Luzhny and Sylvinho as well as forwards Davor Šuker and Thierry Henry. Inconsistent performances in the league against lowly opposition meant Arsenal never posed a serious title challenge, ending the campaign as runners-up, 18 points behind Manchester United. The club had another poor season in the Champions League, finishing third in their group; this won them a consolation place in the UEFA Cup and Arsenal managed to go all the way to the 