Arsenal have found multiple ways of getting results this season.
In his time as Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta has gradually evolved and developed his side.
As a result, the Gunners are now capable of playing in different ways and adopting numerous distinct tactical approaches.
At times this has seen the North London club come in for criticism. Roy Keane took aim at Arteta’s tactics after the Spanish coach had his side take up a very defensive mindset whilst trying to hang on to a lead with ten men against Manchester City.
However, the Gunners have also demonstrated that they are capable of producing scintillating football, too. Arsenal put on a remarkable attacking display against Leicester City recently, creating chance after chance against the Foxes.
Individual elements of the game are given careful consideration as well, such as set-pieces. Arsenal boast a brilliant record from these situations, and set-piece coach Nicolas Jover has been hugely praised.
Arsenal named Europe’s best set-piece takers
Arsenal scored from a set-piece yet again on their way to beating PSG 2-0 in a Champions League clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Bukayo Saka put the hosts 2-0 up in the first half as his free kick snuck through a crowd of bodies and beat the goalkeeper.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Inside Gooners podcast in the wake of this match, Arsenal fan and former Tottenham Hotspur striker Darren Bent praised Arsenal’s ability to change up the way they play and their set-piece prowess.
He said: “Arsenal have found different ways of playing. That front-foot football won’t always work against some of the better teams, but if you can defend deep then all of a sudden there you go. It might be a set play.
“Set plays are vital, and Arsenal are probably the best in Europe at doing that. So that’s a weapon as well.”
Mikel Arteta’s flexibility could prove key to success
Arsenal remain unbeaten across all competitions so far this season, and the players’ ability to adapt to the unique demands and challenges of each game has allowed them to avoid defeat.
This footballing intelligence is honed on the training pitch, and will also be a consideration when it comes to the transfer market. Arsenal will target players that have the ability to take on this adaptability.
Arsenal will be aiming to win the Premier League title this season, as well as compete seriously in both the Champions League and domestic cup competitions. Their ability to change the way they play and conjure goals from set-pieces could prove crucial in this quest for silverware success.
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