7M - Arteta embraces Arsenal's deadly set-piece reputation following victory over Chelsea

Mikel Arteta has expressed his full support for Arsenal’s growing reputation as "Set-Piece FC" after his team utilized their mastery of corner routines to secure a crucial 2-1 win against Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. The victory, powered by headers from William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, allowed the Gunners to move five points clear at the top of the Premier League table. With 16 goals scored from corners so far this season, Arsenal has already equaled the historical Premier League record, a feat that has seen the club’s supporters celebrate their dead-ball prowess with newfound enthusiasm. Despite a minor setback when Piero Hincapie inadvertently headed a Chelsea corner into his own net just before halftime, Arsenal’s set-piece coach Nicolas Jover once again received high praise for orchestrating a match-winning tactical display.

The team’s heavy reliance on set-plays has drawn criticism from some quarters, notably from former Chelsea forward Chris Sutton, who questioned the aesthetic quality of Arsenal's title charge and described them as potentially the "ugliest" winning team in history. However, Arteta remains unfazed by such labels, emphasizing that the immense quality of set-pieces across the Premier League makes them a vital component of modern football. The manager highlighted the importance of dominating individual duels and noted that having multiple scoring options is essential for any side aiming to compete for the title. Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the team’s attitude and dominance, especially after navigating a challenging week that included back-to-back victories against Tottenham and Chelsea.

On the opposing side, Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior voiced his frustration after seeing his team concede from set-pieces yet again, noting that five of the nine goals allowed under his tenure have come from such situations against Arsenal. Rosenior admitted that his players failed to execute a new defensive plan designed specifically to counter the Gunners' corners, labeling Arsenal as perhaps the best team in the world in this department. He also raised concerns about the "holding and grappling" that occurs before a ball is delivered, suggesting that football’s governing bodies may need to review the rules to address these tactics. Despite these complaints, Arsenal’s ability to maximize every dead-ball opportunity remains their most potent weapon as they head into the final months of a quadruple-chasing campaign.