Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has shed light on how the Gunners have been gaining a psychological edge over their opponents this season. Speaking to Standard Sport, Timber emphasized the importance of Arsenal’s efficiency in set-pieces and how it has become a key weapon in their impressive campaign so far.
Arsenal have scored 22 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League since the start of last season, seven more than any other club, making them a formidable threat in dead-ball situations. Timber believes this success has had a psychological impact on their rivals.
Asked whether Arsenal’s set-piece dominance gives them a mental advantage, Timber said via Standard Support: “I think so, I hope so. I hope so, because we are scoring a lot out of it. So I hope so, definitely.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: Jurrien Timber of Arsenal runs with the ball 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)
He continued: “They (Arsenal’s set-pieces) look really dangerous, and we feel really confident when we go into a set-piece as well, which is a nice feeling. We showed again how dangerous we are from set-pieces.”
Arsenal’s confidence in set-pieces is not just about execution but also about preparation and mindset. With meticulous planning from the coaching staff and players’ belief in the system, the Gunners have been able to turn even the tightest games in their favor. Timber acknowledged the importance of being versatile in their approach, stating: “I think that’s the most important thing, building different ways of winning games, and I think we did that this time.”
This adaptability was on display in their recent 2-0 victory over Manchester United, where both goals came from set-pieces. Declan Rice’s pinpoint delivery allowed Jurrien Timber to flick the ball on for the opener, while William Saliba secured the win with an unconventional finish after another corner caused havoc in United’s box.
Timber’s comments underline how Arsenal’s set-piece prowess is not only about scoring goals but also about instilling a sense of inevitability in their opponents. The psychological pressure of knowing Arsenal are likely to capitalize on any dead-ball situation has added a new dimension to their game.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 23: Jurrien Timber of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Nottingham Forest FC at Emirates Stadium on November 23, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
This evolution in Arsenal’s approach reflects their growth as a team under Mikel Arteta. Previously criticized for being a “soft” side, Arsenal have become resilient and multifaceted, capable of winning matches through different strategies. Their set-piece efficiency is just one example of how they’ve refined their game to compete at the highest level.
For Timber, the ability to rely on set-pieces as a consistent source of goals is invaluable: “We feel really confident when we go into a set-piece,” he reiterated, highlighting the trust and belief the players have in their routines.
As Arsenal continue their strong Premier League campaign, currently sitting third in the table, this psychological and tactical edge could prove decisive in the title race. With opponents increasingly wary of the Gunners’ set-piece threat, Timber and his teammates have found a way to dictate games even before the ball is in play.