It is interesting to note that the IFAB (International Football Association Board), the governing body of football, announced last week that it would be introducing further measures to improve the flow of the game. These include, for example, the introduction of countdowns to speed up goal kicks and throw-ins. However, corner kicks were not mentioned.
The bottom line is simple: Arsenal has developed a strength in set pieces that sets them apart from all other teams. They have already scored 16 goals from corner kicks alone – three more than the second-best team and a record.
It is difficult to say with any certainty to what extent this figure is due to delays before the kick is taken or whether it is more the result of meticulous work by Arteta's team. A stricter interpretation of the rules could possibly reduce the value, but the fact remains that Arsenal is simply operating within the rules.
Not so long ago, the Gunners were considered a fragile team for many years, sometimes playing beautifully but failing to win titles. Now, Arsenal's attack is less artistic to watch, but the team is more stable and much harder to rattle. Purists may struggle with this, but after several second-place finishes, Arteta has clearly found a formula that works. If the 22-year title drought comes to an end soon, he and his team will have done everything right.