Arteta defends set piece tactics after Arsenal criticism
The Gunners boss is sticking by his tactics
Mikel Arteta says he is “upset” Arsenal have not scored even more from corners, as he rejected criticism from rival managers over his side’s set-piece approach.
Arsenal continue to lead the way from dead-ball situations, with their 2-1 win over Chelsea marking the ninth time this season they have scored a match-winning goal from a corner.
However, their physical presence and blocking routines at set-pieces have drawn scrutiny. David Moyes labelled Arsenal trailblazers for the use of “dark arts”, while Fabian Hurzeler has called for stricter regulations and criticised the league leaders for time-wasting.
Hurzeler, whose Brighton side face Arsenal in the Premier League on Wednesday, claimed the Gunners sometimes wait “over one minute” before taking corners.
Arteta dismissed the criticism as part of elite competition and insisted his focus remains on maximising every advantage.
“I am upset we haven’t scored more and that we have conceded as well,” he said. “We want to be the best and most dominant team in every aspect of the game. That is the trajectory and the aim of this team.”
Arsenal have scored 58 goals and conceded just 22 in the Premier League this season, giving them the best goal difference in the division. They have also scored 21 goals from set-pieces, including penalties, more than any other side.
Sixteen of their league goals have come directly from corners. While Tottenham have scored a higher proportion of their goals from corners, Arsenal’s overall output has been decisive in tight matches.
Arteta argued that the growing emphasis on set-pieces reflects the broader tactical evolution of the modern game.
“Teams are adapting, teams know after every sequence of play – whether it is a throw-in, a restart of play, an open-pitch situation – after that, they know exactly what they have to do and everything is almost man to man,” he said.
“So it is not going to be a different game, unless we change the rules, because the evolution of the game is that.”