Liverpool manager Arne Slot has openly claimed that Arsenal lacks creativity in their set-piece routines, despite being known as specialists in that area.
While commending Bournemouth’s proficiency with set-pieces ahead of their Premier League clash with the Cherries this weekend, Slot also took a notable dig at Arsenal. ..Continue Reading
Slot said: “In a different way than Arsenal, [Bournemouth] are also a threat on set-pieces. So where Arsenal, nine times out of 10, do the same [thing], [Bournemouth] always come up with worked ones that have been very useful for them.”
Arsenal’s employment of specialist set-piece coach Nicolas Jover has significantly enhanced their effectiveness during dead ball situations in recent years.
This strategic move has added a new dimension to their game, although it may have come at the cost of reduced creativity in open play, particularly noticeable leading up to Christmas.
What Arne Slot is pointing out, however, is the repetitive nature of Arsenal’s in-swinging corners, consistently aimed at the congested six-yard box.
This weekend, Slot and his Liverpool side will gauge whether Bournemouth truly deserve the title of Premier League’s set-piece masters when they visit Vitality Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Reds approach this match following a midweek Champions League loss, though it featured a heavily rotated squad due to the inconsequential nature of the game.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are set to host Manchester City on Sunday, and set-pieces could prove to be a decisive factor in what promises to be a tightly contested match.
