Arsenal’s bid to win the league feels shaky once more – specifically because opponents score from set pieces. Set-Piece Defending jarring; given how they usually dominate possession with smooth passing alongside calm play, conceding from corners or free kicks is a real problem. Lately, sides such as Bournemouth but also West Ham have capitalized on this, swiftly converting those opportunities into scores.
It’s happened before. A year ago, Arsenal let in more than ten goals off free kicks, corners – a truly awful record when stacked against their rivals. Though they’re better at keeping the ball – also when pressing opponents – Arsenal keeps stumbling on corner kicks and free kicks. Manager Arteta expects a lot, realizing these lapses might snatch away a championship.
What Went Wrong in Recent Matches
Arsenal dropped a 2–1 decision to Bournemouth after giving up a pair of easily scored goals. Each time, the ball floated into the penalty area off a kick – defenders seemed unsure who should cover whom, letting attackers jump unchallenged. We’ve seen this before – versus Newcastle, also Fulham. Arsenal controls the ball a lot, yet loses focus when opponents have set pieces like free kicks or corner kicks.
Data shows almost two in five goals Arsenal let in this year stemmed from set pieces – a worrying sign for their pursuit of trophies. They excel at scoring off corners thanks to players like Gabriel and Rice, however, their defense on similar plays lacks reliability.
Why Arsenal Struggles with Set-Piece Defending
They depend quite a bit on sticking to assigned areas, yet this system requires everyone to be spot-on. A momentary lapse in concentration – a badly timed leap by a defender – gives attackers an opening. Manager Mikel Arteta implemented this approach; he benefited from insights offered by coach Nicolas Jover, formerly instrumental in solidifying Manchester City’s reputation for robust set-piece defense.
Opponents Have Studied Arsenal’s Weakness
Opponents figure out Arsenal better these days. Consequently, coaches target their weakness during free kicks or corners – it’s an obvious way to score. Teams such as Bournemouth or Brentford employ strong attackers to relentlessly challenge during corner kicks. Specifically, they go after Arsenal’s vulnerability around the near post – a flaw apparent throughout their recent games.
How Arsenal Can Improve the Situation
Arteta really needs to sort out defending corners and free kicks – it’s crucial. All the exciting attacks in the world won’t matter if they keep conceding soft goals. A few adjustments might do the trick.
1.Players get lost watching empty areas instead of sticking close to rivals. Arteta needs a mix of defending by area alongside direct opponent coverage.
2.Arsenal needs a defensive setup where someone covers the goalmouth closely, meanwhile another player quickly handles loose balls.
3.To better defend corner kicks also free kicks, use bigger guys – players such as Kiwior or Havertz – who are good at heading the ball.
4.Daily practice focusing on defending set plays – led by Nicolas Jover – might improve players’ reactions alongside their understanding of positioning.
Little things matter – get them right, regain harmony. Arteta wants his team to dominate possession; however, stopping set pieces calls for fierce focus. Instead of waiting, players need to challenge for every ball.
The Broader Impact on Arsenal’s Season
Arsenal’s season hangs in the balance because of shaky defending on set plays. Though they’re contenders now, conceding goals through simple mistakes messes with their heads. Given how close this championship will be – a single goal off a corner kick might well define who lifts the trophy – they absolutely must tighten up.
Author’s Opinion
Arteta’s really rebuilt Arsenal – it’s become a force. However, defending set pieces could undo everything. While the team generally plays well, they seem to fall apart during free kicks or corners; it feels like a head game more than bad positioning. He’s known for detailed training, so fixing this simply requires giving defense the same attention.
