Arne Slot questions Arsenal’s quality in title race

Liverpool F.C. manager Arne Slot says the increasing emphasis on set-pieces has made many Premier League matches “no longer a joy to watch”, admitting his “football heart doesn’t like” the current trend. 

The Dutchman’s comments come amid a season in which more than a quarter of goals, 27.5% have come from non-penalty set-pieces, the second-highest proportion since 2009-10.

Slot’s side underlined the growing importance of dead-ball situations on Saturday, when all three of their first-half goals in a 5-2 win over West Ham United F.C. came from corners. 

Despite the departure of set-piece coach Aaron Briggs in December, Liverpool have scored more set-piece goals than any other top-flight team in 2026, excluding penalties.

Across the division, set-pieces have become a decisive weapon. Arsenal F.C. have been particularly effective, scoring 16 goals from corners, three more than any other side, equalling the Premier League record for a single season. 

Their efficiency from dead balls has played a significant role in their title challenge.

Slot contrasted English football with his native Netherlands, suggesting refereeing interpretations contribute to the trend. 

He said that in the Eredivisie, fouls on goalkeepers are more readily given and goals more frequently disallowed. 

In England, he argued, physical contact in the box is more tolerated, making it easier for attacking teams to capitalise on corners and free-kicks.

While acknowledging the competitiveness that defines the Premier League, Slot admitted he prefers a more fluid style of play, referencing the FC Barcelona side of 10 to 15 years ago as an example of football that was a weekly spectacle. 

“You have to accept it,” he said, adding that set-pieces appear to be the “new reality” of the English game and may soon influence youth football as well.

Looking ahead, Slot also provided an update on injured playmaker Florian Wirtz. The Germany international is expected to miss the upcoming matches against Wolverhampton Wanderers due to a back issue sustained in the warm-up against Nottingham Forest, but could return for Liverpool’s Champions League tie with Galatasaray S.K. on 10 March.