Arsenal's Set-Piece Frustration

This season, Arsenal has become the Premier League's most formidable team from dead-ball situations, prompting rivals to label them "Set Piece FC." The club's prowess was highlighted in a recent 2-1 victory over Chelsea, where both of Arsenal's goals were scored from corners. The two goals against Chelsea took Arsenal's total from corners to 16 for the season, equalling the Premier League's single-season record. With nine matches still to play, they are on course to set a new benchmark. This extraordinary success is largely credited to set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, who was brought to the club from Manchester City by Mikel Arteta. Jover's contract reportedly includes a bonus clause specifically for goals scored from set-piece situations, a deal that has proven lucrative this campaign. The focus on set-pieces has drawn criticism from opponents, with Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler recently complaining about the time Arsenal takes on restarts. Similarly, Liverpool boss Arne Slot suggested the increased emphasis on set-pieces in the league is making games "not as joyful" to watch. In response to the external debate, Arteta has been defiant, stating he wants his team to be the most dominant in every aspect of the game. He has dismissed the criticism by claiming his only disappointment is that the team hasn't been even more efficient, telling reporters, "I'm upset that we don't score more." This push for perfection comes as statistics show just how crucial set-pieces have been to their title challenge. In a league where nearly 30% of all goals are now coming from dead-ball situations, Arsenal has scored 22 such goals, excluding penalties. Of the 20 times Arsenal has taken a 1-0 lead in the league this season, 13 of those opening goals have come from either a set-piece or a penalty. This efficiency in breaking the deadlock has been a vital component of their position at the top of the table.