By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has pushed back strongly against growing debate over his side’s reliance on set pieces, admitting he is “upset” that his team, despite their success, have not scored even more goals from dead-ball situations and have also conceded from them this season.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion, Arteta was responding to criticism that his tactics place too heavy an emphasis on set plays, a trend widely discussed in English football in recent weeks.
“We want to be the best and the most dominant team in every aspect of the game. That is the trajectory and the aim of this team,” Arteta told reporters, emphasising his ambition for comprehensive excellence across all phases of play.
Despite scoring a high number of goals from set pieces this season, including a notable two goals from corners in a 2-1 win over Chelsea FC, the Spaniard said he felt there was still more to achieve, both offensively and defensively.
Arsenal’s proficiency from corners and free kicks, developed under specialist coaching and meticulous preparation, has placed them among the most dangerous set-piece teams in the Premier League this term. However, rival coaches and pundits have stirred debate about the spectacle of matches dominated by such moments, with some claiming it detracts from open-play football.
Arteta shrugged off the criticism as “part of the job” and noted that football at the highest level has evolved, with teams adapting to tactical nuances and increasingly tight defensive structures. “As an opponent, you get upset when you concede a goal,” he said, referencing recent matches where set pieces had a decisive influence.
His remarks underline a wider conversation within the Premier League about the growing importance of dead-ball situations. Some managers have called for clearer rules or adjustments to how set pieces are officiated, arguing that they can significantly shape outcomes while reducing fluid play.
Arsenal currently sit at the top of the Premier League standings with a notable lead, and Arteta’s willingness to highlight both strengths and shortcomings reflects his competitive mindset ahead of a busy stretch of fixtures.