In the world of football, set pieces like corners and free-kicks can change games. Recently, Antonio Conte, the manager of Napoli, gave high praise to Arsenal. He said they are setting a new standard with their strong set-piece skills.
Antonio Conte knows a lot about winning. He has led teams like Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Tottenham to success. Now at Napoli, he is preparing for big matches. In a press conference, Conte talked about set pieces. He said, “Today, we see Arsenal dominating and setting an example on set pieces; it’s an aspect that we all observe.” He pointed out that having players who can deliver good balls is key, but teams must work hard on these moments.
Conte’s praise is not just nice words. It highlights Arsenal’s growth under manager Mikel Arteta. Arsenal has scored many goals from set pieces in recent seasons. This has helped them challenge for the Premier League title and do well in Europe.
"We are talking about a fantastic club with a great vision"
Antoino Conte on Chelsea's winning mentality and investment in young players that he claims is not possible in Italy 🔵 pic.twitter.com/QUulUA2QyP
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 27, 2026
How Arsenal Became Set-Piece Experts
Arsenal’s success in set pieces did not happen by chance. Mikel Arteta has focused on this area since he became manager. He hired Nicolas Jover as a set-piece coach in 2021. Jover came from Manchester City, where he helped them improve too.
The team practices set pieces a lot. Arteta once said their skills come from hard work and planning. Players like Declan Rice, Gabriel, and Bukayo Saka are great at heading or crossing the ball. Arsenal uses tricks like blocking runs and quick short corners to confuse defenders.
In the last two seasons, Arsenal has scored more set-piece goals than most teams in the Premier League. For example, in the 2024-2025 season, they netted over 20 goals from corners and free-kicks. This makes up a big part of their total goals. Fans love seeing these well-planned plays turn into goals.
The Impact on Other Teams
The words of Antonio Conte shows that Arsenal’s style is influencing others. Managers across Europe are paying more attention to set pieces. In the Champions League, where games are tight, a good corner can decide the winner.
In the Premier League, teams like Manchester City and Liverpool also work on set pieces, but Arsenal is leading the way. Conte mentioned this as he prepares Napoli for their game. He wants his team to match that level. This praise from a rival manager is a big compliment to Arteta and his staff.
Set pieces are not just about big players jumping high. It’s about teamwork, timing, and creativity. Arsenal’s approach proves that even small details can make a team great.
Mikel Arteta reveals he and his @Arsenal players held a meeting to refocus on what they want to achieve this season following the loss to @ManUtd 🗣️
“It was so encouraging and beautiful because what came out of that was very simple.
“We have earned the right to be in a great… pic.twitter.com/0Za9dxPlg4
— Hayters TV (@HaytersTV) January 27, 2026
In today’s football, games are faster and defenses are stronger. Scoring from open play is hard. That’s why set pieces are like a secret weapon. They give teams a chance to score without running the whole field.
Arsenal’s prowess helps them in tough matches. Against teams that park the bus, a well-taken corner can break the deadlock. This has helped them win points they might have lost before.
Conte’s observation is a reminder that football is evolving. Teams must innovate to stay ahead. Arsenal is doing that, and others are taking notes.
Ahead for Arsenal
With Conte’s praise, Arsenal fans can feel proud. The team is not just winning games; they are changing how football is played. As the season goes on, their set-piece strength could help them win trophies.
In simple terms, Conte sees Arsenal as the best at set pieces right now. This sets a high bar for everyone else. Football is about goals, and Arsenal is finding smart ways to score them.
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