Premier League clubs uncover smart strategy to counter Arsenal following Mikel Arteta’s caution.

Arsenal have faced challenges in the Premier League title race this season, but their strength in set pieces has remained a key asset under Mikel Arteta. However, even that advantage might be under threat following Monaco’s innovative approach despite their 3-0 defeat in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Bukayo Saka’s brace and a late goal from Kai Havertz helped Arsenal secure a vital win, moving them closer to the knockout stages. Yet, Monaco’s tactical ploy during corners could serve as a blueprint for Arsenal’s Premier League rivals. Known for their proficiency in scoring from corners — netting 22 goals since last season, more than any other side — the Gunners rely heavily on the expertise of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover.

Monaco disrupted this by leaving three attackers upfield during Arsenal’s second-half corners, forcing the hosts to pull three players out of the penalty area to guard against counterattacks. The tactic proved effective, with Monaco’s goalkeeper, Radosław Majecki, collecting the ball unchallenged. It remains to be seen if Premier League teams adopt a similar approach.

Arteta has previously emphasized the need for improvement in set-piece situations, acknowledging after a draw with Fulham that his team could perform even better in this area. He dismissed the notion that set pieces should be seen as separate from overall play, stating that they are deeply interconnected.

Arsenal’s set-piece prowess has drawn mixed reactions, with former Manchester United forward Dimitar Berbatov likening them to “the new Stoke City” — a comment Arteta took as a compliment. Gary Neville, however, criticized Jover, calling him “the most annoying bloke in football.” Arteta responded by saying such comments serve as motivation for further improvement.

Despite their success, Arteta insists there is room for growth, not just in set pieces but across all aspects of the team. As Arsenal continue to build on last season’s progress, innovative tactics like Monaco’s could provide a new challenge for Arteta’s side in their pursuit of

success.