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In the competitive realm of the Premier League, few strategies are as impactful as effective set pieces. Arsenal Football Club, under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta, has harnessed this often-overlooked aspect of the game to propel themselves into a leading position in the league standings.
What was once perceived as a humble tactic, primarily utilized by teams struggling to compete, has been transformed by Arsenal into a sophisticated weapon that has changed the dynamics of their matches.
As the season progresses, Arsenal’s proficiency in converting dead-ball situations into successful goals has become a hallmark of their play.
This tactical evolution has been crucial as they prepare to face rivals, including an upcoming London derby against Crystal Palace, where their defensive setup might be tested due to potential injuries in the squad.
Arteta’s set-piece philosophy
The foundation of Arsenal’s current success can be traced back to Mikel Arteta’s experiences as a player.
Drawing from his playing days, he recognized the significance of set pieces and their potential to change the course of a game. His time at Manchester City, where he worked closely with analysts and specialized coaches, further deepened his understanding of these situations.
Transforming dead-ball opportunities
Arteta has emphasized the need to maximize set pieces, stating, “We need to give this part of the game the attention it deserves.” This approach is evident as the team has netted ten goals from set pieces this season, a feat unmatched by any other team in the league.
These goals are not mere flukes; they result from meticulous planning, clever positioning, and precision delivery, showcasing the tactical depth of the Gunners.
A recent example of this was displayed during their match against Fulham at Craven Cottage, where a well-executed corner kick led to Gabriel Magalhães flicking the ball to Leandro Trossard, who scored the opener.
Fulham’s manager, Marco Silva, acknowledged the impact of that goal, illustrating how a single moment can alter the momentum of a match.
Challenges and squad depth
While Arsenal has thrived on set pieces, injuries to key players threaten their current lineup. Gabriel Magalhães, a crucial figure in their defense, recently left a match against Atletico Madrid due to injury, leaving uncertainty about his availability for upcoming matches. Arteta expressed cautious optimism, indicating that they would assess his recovery over the next 24 hours.
Impact of injuries on tactics
Without Gabriel’s aerial strength and leadership, Arsenal’s defensive structure could be compromised, placing additional pressure on players like William Saliba and Riccardo Calafiori. This is particularly concerning against teams such as Crystal Palace, known for their physical attacking threats and ability to generate scoring opportunities from set plays. Arteta might need to modify his approach, potentially sacrificing offensive aggression to ensure defensive stability.
Despite the injury challenges, there is a silver lining. Viktor Gyökeres recently broke a goal drought, scoring twice against Atletico Madrid, which could help build confidence within the squad. Arteta’s acknowledgment of Gyökeres’ performance without requiring extensive discussions reflects his understanding of the psychological aspects of the game.
Set pieces as a game-changer
In a league where every point is crucial, Arsenal’s expertise in set pieces has emerged as a significant equalizer. This tactical nuance allows them to unlock stubborn defenses or compensate for injured players, providing a pathway to maintain their momentum even when faced with adversity.
Critics may argue that reliance on set pieces diminishes the excitement of open play, but Arteta’s methodical approach underscores a critical reality in modern football: marginal gains can be the difference between success and failure. As the Gunners continue their pursuit of the Premier League title, their ability to execute set pieces effectively could prove vital.
As the season progresses, Arsenal’s proficiency in converting dead-ball situations into successful goals has become a hallmark of their play. This tactical evolution has been crucial as they prepare to face rivals, including an upcoming London derby against Crystal Palace, where their defensive setup might be tested due to potential injuries in the squad.0
