Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration that Arsenal isn’t scoring enough goals from corners.
This week, discussions about the impact of set-pieces on modern football have intensified, particularly after Liverpool manager Arne Slot revealed on Monday that he finds it increasingly unenjoyable to watch certain Premier League matches.
This season, Arsenal has been the leading team in corner goals, netting 16, including both goals in their recent victory against Chelsea.
Despite facing critique over their tactics—such as pundit Chris Sutton stating that Arsenal could be the “ugliest” champions if they win the Premier League—Arteta remains steadfast.
“I’m unhappy that we don’t score more and that we concede as well,” he remarked.
“Our goal is to be the best and most dominant team in every aspect of the game, and that is the direction we’re aiming for as a club,” he added.
On being asked about the criticism directed at his team, he said, “That’s part of the job.”
Arteta acknowledged that football has evolved significantly in recent years, necessitating adaptation from teams.
“When an opponent scores, naturally, you feel upset. I was really disappointed with how we conceded a goal against Chelsea,” he reflected. “Consider the quality Chelsea possesses and their ability to score from set-pieces. The same goes for Manchester United; during my time at Man City, we focused heavily on set-pieces.”
He added, “Football has its phases and moments when teams can capitalize on particular strategies. The game is continually evolving, making it more challenging.”
Arteta further explained, “Previously, a game plan might have just involved switching a full-back and adding an extra midfielder. Now, teams are adjusting; they understand exactly what they need to do after every play, whether it’s a throw-in, restart, or open-play situation.”
“Everything is nearly man-to-man now. The game will continue to change unless we alter the rules based on its evolution,” he noted.
If people desire to witness “beautiful football,” Arteta believes they might have to look beyond the Premier League. “I don’t see how celebrating one type of goal is different from another. Perhaps it’s more appealing for YouTube, but I don’t know,” he remarked. “I’d prefer playing with three extra players in my own half to create beautiful football, but that’s not the reality we face in football.”
“If you want that style of play, you may need to explore other leagues because that hasn’t been the case in the Premier League for the last couple of seasons,” he added.
Midfielder Declan Rice is expected to be fit for Arsenal’s trip to Brighton on Wednesday, despite limping off during the game against Chelsea.