Arsenal’s resurgence as a Premier League title contender has been built on several pillars: Mikel Arteta’s tactical acumen, the emergence of young stars, and shrewd recruitment. But an often-overlooked factor has been their dominance in set-pieces. Since the start of last season, Arsenal have scored 22 goals from corners in the Premier League — seven more than any other club. This remarkable statistic highlights an area of the game where the Gunners have quietly become the benchmark for efficiency and execution.
Much of Arsenal’s transformation in this department can be attributed to the work of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover. Since joining from Manchester City in 2021, Jover has revolutionized Arsenal’s approach to dead-ball situations, turning them into a potent weapon. Whether it’s well-rehearsed routines or the pinpoint delivery from players like Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s corners have become a source of consistent threat.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: Jurrien Timber of Arsenal scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United FC at Emirates Stadium on December 04, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
This was evident yet again in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Manchester United, where both goals originated from corners. Declan Rice’s superb delivery allowed Jurrien Timber to glance the ball into the net, while a second corner resulted in a scrappy yet effective goal from William Saliba. These moments epitomize the team’s ability to capitalize on opportunities from dead-ball situations, often breaking down stubborn defenses.
Arsenal’s proficiency from corners has not only added goals but has also provided crucial points in tight matches. Last season, their set-piece prowess was vital in securing wins against teams who sought to frustrate them with low-block defenses. The ability to score from a corner is a game-changer in the Premier League, where margins are razor-thin, and Arsenal’s mastery in this area has often been the difference between a draw and a victory.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 24: Declan Rice of Arsenal prepares to take a corner kick during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium on February 24, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
This success is no accident. The Gunners dedicate significant time on the training ground to perfecting their routines, with players understanding their roles in intricate plays. The combination of creative short-corner strategies and aerial dominance from players like Gabriel Magalhães, Saliba, and Timber ensures Arsenal can vary their approach, keeping opponents guessing.
Arsenal’s set-piece efficiency also underscores the importance of squad depth. The team’s corner specialists, from Ødegaard to Saka, provide consistently accurate deliveries, while towering figures like Gabriel and Saliba ensure Arsenal have multiple targets in the box. This synergy between the takers and receivers is a testament to the team’s preparation and cohesion.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 06: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal prepares to take a corner-kick during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Arsenal FC at Stadio San Siro on November 06, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
As Arsenal sit third in the Premier League table this season, their ability to convert corners into goals remains a crucial part of their strategy. With seven more set-piece goals than any other side since the start of last season, they’ve turned a seemingly minor aspect of the game into a major competitive advantage.
Mikel Arteta’s philosophy emphasizes control and creativity in open play, but his side’s dominance at set-pieces adds another layer to their game. As the Gunners continue to chase silverware, their “secret weapon” is no longer a secret — it’s a statement of intent. Arsenal are not just good; they’re prepared, and corners are their specialty.