Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has appreciated the comparison of his team to Stoke City owing to their efficiency in set pieces, Afrosport reports.
The Gunners defeated Manchester United 2-0 with the help of corner kicks in midweek and it drew comparison with Stoke City who were renowned for scoring goals via throw-ins during their Premier League stint under manager Tony Pulis between 2007 and 2013.
Some have taken it for banter and dubbed Arsenal ‘king of corners’ but Arteta likes the comparison as it shows signs they have improved in that area.
“I understood very well what Dimitar Berbatov said, I was in the best possible way. We take it as a big compliment [because Stoke were so good at it],” the Spaniard said.
“Well we want to be the kings of everything, on set pieces, the best in the world, on high press the best in the world, attacking in open spaces, the best in the world.
“Best atmosphere and stadium, the best at everything. Before it was we didn’t score enough, we didn’t challenge, we didn’t win big games for 20 years. We want to be the best at everything.
“The best academy, the best individual development for players. We want to be the best of the best. Recruit the best players, the best coaches, that’s the aim.”
22 – Arsenal have scored more goals from corners than any other side in the Premier League since the start of last season (21), while the two players with the most assists from set plays in this time are Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka (7 each). Formula. pic.twitter.com/N6bFNQwRcc
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) December 4, 2024
Arsenal are currently third in the league standings tied on 28 points with London rivals Chelsea and will face follow London side Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
