Arsenal set-pieces: Mikel Arteta 'upset' Gunners 'not scored more' from corners amid criticism from Premier League managers
BBC World
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Arsenal’s dominance in set-pieces has been a key factor in their strong title challenge, with Mikel Arteta expressing frustration that they haven’t scored more goals from corners. Despite criticism from rival managers like Everton’s David Moyes and Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, Arteta defended Arsenal’s approach, calling it part of the evolving game. He emphasized the importance of set-pieces in modern football, where teams are adapting to tighter marking and strategic play.
Hurzeler criticized Arsenal for time-wasting during corners, suggesting that clearer rules on corner-taking times are needed to maintain fan engagement. He pointed out that matches involving his team have a higher ball-in-play percentage compared to Arsenal, who take nearly 44 seconds per corner restart—almost twice as long as Chelsea’s average.
The Premier League is currently considering how to address these issues. With set-pieces contributing significantly to the league’s goal tally this season, their role in shaping match outcomes has become a hot topic. The debate over rules and tactics highlights the growing importance of set-pieces in football strategy and its impact on game dynamics.
This matters because it reflects broader trends in football where tactics and rule interpretations can influence game flow and fan experience. As the Premier League continues to evolve, addressing these issues will be crucial for maintaining a balance between competitive play and engaging match pacing.
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Originally published on BBC World on 3/3/2026