Mikel Arteta says he is not concerned about criticism surrounding Arsenal and their increasing reliance on set pieces, as the manager insists his only focus is winning matches and competing for major trophies.
Softfootball gathered, in recent weeks, some fans, analysts and pundits have suggested that Arsenal’s style of play has become less exciting, with growing attention on the team’s effectiveness from set-piece situations such as corners and free kicks.
However, Arteta made it clear that he does not share that concern.
Speaking about Arsenal’s set-piece approach, the Spanish coach explained that his ambition is actually much bigger than what critics are suggesting. Rather than being satisfied with Arsenal’s current record from dead-ball situations, Arteta said he believes the team should be scoring even more from them.
According to Arteta, the long-term objective is to build a team that is the best in every attacking department, whether in open play, possession-based football, or set-piece execution.
He emphasised that Arsenal want to dominate every phase of attacking football, including corners and other set-piece opportunities, because those moments can often decide tight matches.
The Arsenal boss was also asked directly whether he is worried about the ongoing discussion among fans and pundits who have labelled the club “Corner Kick FC” due to their frequent threat from corners.
Arteta dismissed those concerns, saying his responsibility as a manager is to win football matches rather than worry about outside commentary.
He acknowledged that football supporters will always debate tactics and performances, but insisted that such conversations do not influence how he approaches his job.
In fact, Arteta revealed he is more frustrated by the goals Arsenal concede rather than the attention given to their attacking set pieces. For him, improving defensively and maximising scoring opportunities in every situation remains the real priority.
Over the past few seasons, Arteta’s Arsenal have been widely praised for their fluid attacking football and attractive style of play in the Premier League.
But with the title race intensifying, the manager believes that results must now take precedence above everything else.
Arteta pointed out that there are moments in football where the main objective is simply to win, particularly when a team is chasing major honours such as the Premier League title.
While Arsenal supporters have enjoyed exciting football under his leadership in previous campaigns, the Spaniard made it clear that his current focus is delivering trophies, especially the league title that the club has been chasing in recent seasons.
For Arteta, whether goals come from open play or set pieces matters far less than ensuring Arsenal continue to collect the results needed to stay at the top.
