‘King of Corners’: Arsenal’s new corner kick milestone after Manchester United win

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta with set-piece coach Nicolas Jover (Credit: Imago)

‘King of Corners’: Arsenal’s new corner kick milestone after Manchester United win

Kolawole Babatunde 00:31 - 05.12.2024

The Gunners continued their fine form on Wednesday night, handing Ruben Amorim his first loss as the Red Devils manager, but they did it by setting a special set piece record.

Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium, extending their winning streak and putting pressure on league leaders Liverpool.

The Gunners struggled to break down a resolute United defence in the first half. However, the deadlock was broken early in the second half when Jurrien Timber headed home a pinpoint corner kick from Declan Rice.

Arsenal set piece record
Timber scores for Arsenal || Imago

Arsenal doubled their lead shortly after from another corner delivery — this time Thomas Partey headed the ball before William Saliba deflected it into the net. United struggled to create clear-cut chances and were unable to mount a significant comeback.

Arsenal set piece record

Arsenal set piece record
Gabriel missed the game against Manchester United through injury. || X

While the Gunners’ set piece danger man Gabriel Magalhães missed the game through injury, it did not stop them from being dangerous from them.

With the two set piece goals, Arsenal have now scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season, seven more than any other club.

With several players over 6 ft tall, it is not a shocker that the North London side is making the most of set pieces.

Nicolas Jover is the mastermind

Nicolas Jover is credited with Arsenal's impressive set-piece record (Imago/PA Images)

Arsenal's set-piece coach, Jover,  has been instrumental in transforming the Gunners' attacking prowess from dead-ball situations. 

His innovative tactics and meticulous planning have resulted in a significant increase in goals scored from corners and free kicks. 

Jover's expertise has been a key factor in Arsenal's recent success, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the Premier League when it comes to set-piece opportunities.

Initially part of the Manchester City backroom on the request of Arteta, the set-piece coach opted to join the Spaniard at Arsenal after his contract expired with the Citizens in 2021.

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