Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hits back at critics of his team’s set-piece success, insisting he wants to score even more from dead-ball situations.
MIKEL Arteta has dismissed criticism of Arsenal’s reliance on set-pieces, stating he is disappointed his team does not score even more goals from such situations.
The Premier League leaders have established a five-point advantage largely due to their dead-ball prowess.
They equalled the league’s single-season record for goals from corners with two in Sunday’s 2-1 win over Chelsea, reaching 16 for the campaign.
This excellence has sparked debate, with Liverpool boss Arne Slot saying he no longer enjoys watching some matches.
Former striker Chris Sutton claimed Arsenal would be the “ugliest” champions if they win the title.
Arteta is unrepentant, focusing instead on improving efficiency.
“I’m upset that we don’t score more, and that we concede as well,” he told reporters ahead of a trip to Brighton.
He added that the aim is to be the most dominant team in every aspect of the game.
Asked about the criticism, Arteta replied that it is simply “part of the job”.
He agrees with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who believes teams should adapt rather than complain.
“Now teams are adapting. Chelsea, look at the quality that they have, the amount of set-pieces they score. Manchester United as well,” Arteta said.
Undeterred by the “ugly” label, Arteta questioned how one goal differs from another.
“I would like to play with three players extra in my own half to get some beautiful football. This is not the reality of football,” he stated.
He suggested critics seeking a different style should “go to a different country”.
