Understanding Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strategy in 2024: The Rise and Challenges of Declan Rice
Arsenal’s recent performances have showcased a notable shift in their approach to set-pieces, particularly following the arrival of Declan Rice from West Ham for a staggering £105 million. As the team navigates the ups and downs of the 2023-24 season, it becomes increasingly vital to examine how Rice’s corner-taking abilities have transformed Arsenal’s game plan and the challenges that lie ahead.
Evaluating Rice’s Impact on Arsenal’s Corner Strategy
In the early stages of his Arsenal career, Declan Rice took only three corners in his first 20 Premier League appearances. However, everything changed during the mid-season training camp in Dubai, where Arsenal’s set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, recognized Rice’s potential as a corner-taker. This revelation was not merely coincidental; it was a strategic pivot that would see Rice take 44 corners from January 20 onwards, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Rice’s corner deliveries have proven to be a game-changer. His ability to vary the delivery style—from looping curls aimed at the back post to sharp, direct crosses near the goal—has made him a secret weapon for Arsenal. Under the guidance of Jover, the team utilized Rice’s right foot effectively, leading to an impressive tally of four assists from his corners during crucial matchups against teams like Newcastle and Tottenham.
Rice’s performance peaked during a memorable 6-0 victory over West Ham, where his contributions were instrumental. This match not only highlighted his skill from set-pieces but also illustrated how Arsenal capitalized on corners, achieving a joint Premier League record of 16 goals from 265 corner kicks over the season. This figure translates to an average of one goal every 16 corners, showcasing a remarkable efficiency that few teams can claim.
Navigating Challenges Without Saka
Despite the early successes, Arsenal faced significant challenges as the season progressed. The injury to star winger Bukayo Saka, who was known for his exceptional delivery from the right, left a void in Arsenal’s corner strategy. Saka had been instrumental in providing assists from set-pieces, and his absence shifted the burden onto Rice. While Arsenal maintained a high corner count, the effectiveness of their deliveries dwindled without the dynamic interplay that Saka provided.
In the wake of Saka’s injury, Rice’s corner-taking statistics began to falter. Following Saka’s surgery, he has recorded just one assist from 69 corners, a stark contrast to his earlier contributions. This decline raises concerns about the team’s ability to capitalize on set-pieces, especially in critical moments when they need goals most.
Looking Ahead: Revitalizing Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strategy
To reinvigorate Arsenal’s corner strategy, head coach Mikel Arteta and Jover must reassess their approach. The recent training sessions in Dubai focused heavily on set-pieces, indicating a commitment to refining their tactics. Arteta’s understanding of the importance of corners, particularly with a lack of a recognized centre-forward, suggests that they may have to rely on this aspect of their game in the title race.
As the team prepares for upcoming fixtures, the spotlight will be firmly on Rice. While he has demonstrated the potential to be a game-changer, consistency will be key. The expectation is that with focused training and strategic adjustments, Rice can regain his form and help Arsenal navigate the challenges posed by their title rivals effectively.
Arsenal’s journey this season underscores the vital role set-pieces play in modern football. With Declan Rice at the helm of their corner strategy, the Gunners have the tools to reclaim their dominance in this area. As they push forward, the integration of Rice’s skills, alongside a renewed focus on teamwork and adaptability, will be crucial in their quest for the Premier League title.