Arsenal’s Set-Piece Tactics Under Scrutiny Ahead of Everton Clash

As Arsenal prepare to host Everton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, their set-piece approach has come under the spotlight, with former refereeing chief Keith Hackett urging officials to crack down on what he describes as “rugby-style” tactics.

The Gunners, renowned for their aesthetic style of play, have added a significant aerial threat under Mikel Arteta, but this newfound steel has sparked debate.

Arsenal’s Set-Piece Dominance

Arsenal’s ability to capitalise on dead-ball situations has been a hallmark of their play in 2024.

The Gunners have scored 20 goals from set-pieces this calendar year, matching their record from 2009.

This season, they’ve netted eight goals from set-pieces in the Premier League, trailing only Stuttgart and Wolfsburg, who lead Europe’s top five leagues with nine each.

Arteta’s men have transformed into a team capable of combining flair with physicality, a shift that has contributed to their consistency near the top of the table.

Everton, who have scored six goals from set-pieces this term, will need to be alert to Arsenal’s threat from corners and free kicks.

Despite Arsenal’s success, Hackett has raised concerns about the methods employed during these situations, suggesting that referees are overlooking fouls in the penalty area.

Calls for Stricter Officiating

Hackett, who once headed the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL), has criticised referees for allowing excessive physicality during Arsenal’s set-pieces.

Speaking after the Gunners’ 1-1 draw with Fulham, Hackett highlighted incidents of grappling and wrestling that he believes have gone unchecked.

“The referee failed to grip, as a lot of referees are doing, grappling, almost rugby-style play in the penalty area,” Hackett said.

“There’s no doubt that one of the reasons they’re scoring goals from corners is that they’ve got one or two players who are holding their opponent, wrestling them to the ground, and referees are ignoring it.”

Hackett has called on the PGMOL to address what he sees as leniency in officiating such situations, arguing that football must not resemble rugby.

Everton’s Challenge at the Emirates

Everton face a daunting task against an in-form Arsenal side.

While the Toffees have struggled historically at the Emirates, their last league visit was a close contest, with Arsenal snatching a controversial stoppage-time victory on the final day of the season.

Everton’s only triumph at the Emirates came during the pandemic-affected 2020/21 campaign, when matches were played behind closed doors.

With no fans present, they secured a 1-0 win courtesy of a Bernd Leno own goal.

As both sides prepare for Saturday’s clash, Arsenal will look to leverage their set-piece strength to maintain their momentum, while Everton aim to counteract Arteta’s side with defensive discipline.

The match promises to be a test of Arsenal’s physical and tactical prowess, with officials now under pressure to keep a closer watch on their methods.

Whether Hackett’s comments will influence the referee’s approach remains to be seen, but the spotlight will undoubtedly be on how Arsenal’s set-pieces are managed.