Mikel Arteta is embracing comparisons with Stoke City’s set-piece prowess as he challenged his side to become the “kings of everything”.
Both goals in Arsenal’s win over Manchester United came from corners, which put their total of 22 since the start of last season five clear of any other team in the top five leagues of Europe.
Former United striker Dimitar Berbatov joked that Arsenal were the “new Stoke City” whose threat from set-pieces, most notably throw-ins, under Tony Pulis between 2008 and 2013.
“I understood very well what Berbatov said. It was said in the best possible way. We take it as a big compliment because,” said Arteta.
Arsenal’s set-piece coach Nico Jover is credited with transforming their fortunes at set-pieces since joining from Manchester City in 2021.
Gary Neville called him the ‘most annoying bloke in football’ during The Overlap’s live stream of the game on Wednesday as Arsenal consolidated their reputation as the kings of corners.
“We want to be the kings of everything,” Arteta said.
“Set pieces, the best in the world. High press, the best in the world. In open spaces, the best in the world. The best atmosphere in the stadium and the best at everything.
“Before it was we didn’t score enough, we were soft at defending, we didn’t have mentality, we were not physical enough, we didn’t beat big teams away from home for 17 years, 20 years, 22 years.
“We want to be the best at everything. We want to have the best academy, be the best at player development, recruit the best players, best coaches. That’s the aim.”
Arsenal face Fulham on Sunday where they will be looking for their fourth consecutive league win, but they face two late fitness calls.
Gabriel, 26, was substituted during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Sporting in the Champions League on November 26.
He played 45 minutes of the following 5-2 victory over West Ham United on November 30 before missing the 2-0 victory over Manchester United on Wednesday.
Calafiori also missed the Man United game with Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko deputising, but Arteta was unable to rate the chances of either defender returning to the starting line-up.
“Until tomorrow’s training session it’s very difficult to say,” said Arteta.
“It’s match day minus two, so we have to modify a few players. We have another training session tomorrow so we will see how everyone is.”
(Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
