Liverpool have confirmed that Aaron Briggs has left his role as set-piece coach of the men’s first team. Briggs departed his position as part of Arne Slot’s backroom team after the two parties reached a mutual agreement to part ways.
The decision comes amid a season where Liverpool have the joint-worst set-play record in Europe’s top five leagues. The Reds have conceded 12 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season, most recently conceding from a corner in their 2-1 home win over rock-bottom Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, December 27.
With the situation only aggravating, Liverpool felt an intervention in the area was necessary, leading to the mutual decision for Briggs exiting Anfield.
A club statement read:
“Liverpool FC can confirm Aaron Briggs has departed his role as set-piece coach of the men’s first team. Having joined the club in July 2024 – initially in the role of individual development coach – Briggs contributed to our Premier League title success last season as a member of Arne Slot’s backroom staff. He leaves with the appreciation and best wishes of everyone at the club.”
Briggs was initially an elite development coach, helping bridge the gap from the academy to the first team. Following Briggs’ departure, responsibility for preparing the team for set-pieces will be taken on by the rest of the club's coaching staff.
What’s next for Liverpool after Aaron Briggs’ departure?
Briggs’ departure comes just two days before Liverpool’s first game of 2026, as they host Leeds United on New Year’s Day. After winning the Premier League title last season, the Reds have endured a rollercoaster campaign this term.
While no team in Europe’s top five leagues has conceded more set-play goals than Arne Slot’s side this season, they are also the second-most vulnerable from corners, having conceded seven goals. Only West Ham have conceded more, with ten.
Club captain Virgil van Dijk spoke about their set-piece issues after the game against Wolves, saying:
“We have defended so many set-pieces very well. But the fact is, we've conceded too many goals like that, and it hurts. We have to improve that. It's about repetition, training, analysing...it's something we have to improve. I'd say at least 75 per cent of the time, or even more, it's not even about the first contact, it's the second phase that is the killer.”
As it stands, the Reds have no immediate replacement for Briggs lined up. It remains to be seen if their vulnerability from set-pieces improves in the coming weeks.