Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his appreciation for comparisons between his team’s set piece strategies and those of Tony Pulis’ Stoke City. Arteta regards the comparison as a “big compliment,” acknowledging Stoke’s historical strength in this area.
Arteta’s Tactical Approach
Arteta’s Arsenal has been noted for its effective use of set pieces, a tactical element that was a hallmark of Stoke City under Tony Pulis. Stoke was renowned for their physical and strategic approach to set pieces, often causing difficulties for opponents. Arteta’s comments suggest a recognition of the value in adopting similar strategies to enhance Arsenal’s performance.
Recent Context
In recent weeks, Arteta has been addressing various team issues, including player absences and contract situations. Notably, he explained Gabriel’s absence due to injury concerns and discussed Raheem Sterling’s non-participation in a match against Sporting. Additionally, Arteta has praised players like William Saliba for reaching milestones and Ethan Nwaneri for his intelligence and trust within the team.
Arsenal’s Current Standing
Under Arteta’s management, Arsenal continues to develop its tactical identity, with set pieces playing a significant role. The manager’s openness to comparisons with Stoke City highlights his strategic focus on leveraging all aspects of the game to maintain competitive advantage.