Arsenal and The Mastery of Corner Kicks
When the Mikel Arteta era is remembered by Arsenal fans and the football world in years to come, one image will stand out: the artistry and effectiveness of their corner routines.
On Tuesday night at the Emirates Stadium, this hallmark of Arsenal’s strategy was on full display as two expertly executed corners helped secure a 2-0 win over Manchester United.
Both goals came from in-swinging deliveries that exposed United’s vulnerabilities. The first, a Jurriën Timber header from a Declan Rice corner, broke the deadlock early in the second half.
The second goal was a testament to Arsenal’s creativity: Thomas Partey’s back-post header glanced off William Saliba to double the advantage.
These moments brought Arsenal’s tally of Premier League goals from corners since the summer of 2021 to an astonishing 41, the most by any team in that period.
Remarkably, Arsenal attempted more shots from corners (7) than in open play (6). Beyond the goals, their set-piece threat was relentless, with United defenders forced into last-ditch clearances and goalkeeper André Onana tested repeatedly.
Manchester United, under new manager Rúben Amorim, presented a compact and disciplined defense but struggled to cope with Arsenal’s aerial prowess from their corner kicks.
While their cagey approach limited the Gunners in open play, they had no answers to the tactical brilliance of Arsenal’s corner routines.
Arteta and his backroom staff’s meticulous planning and his players’ execution of set-pieces continue to redefine expectations, turning corners into decisive weapons.
Tuesday’s victory not only underlined Arsenal’s mastery of this art form but also demonstrated their growing confidence as the season progresses.