Arsenal's victory against Chelsea showcased both their strengths and weaknesses. While their set-piece execution is top-notch, questions arise about their ability to control games and maintain dominance, especially against 10 men. Manager Mikel Arteta defends his approach, citing the need to adapt to each opponent. However, critics like Chris Sutton question whether this 'ugly' style is enough to win the title.
Set-Piece Dominance: Arsenal's proficiency from set-pieces is undeniable. They have scored a league-high 16 goals from corners, equaling the most in a single Premier League season. This reliance has been a key factor in securing crucial wins.
Arteta's Defense: Mikel Arteta argues that his team is simply playing the game that's in front of them, adapting to the opposition's strengths and weaknesses. He highlights the quality of teams like Chelsea and the need to be versatile.
Criticism and Concerns: Despite the wins, some argue that Arsenal's over-reliance on set-pieces is not a recipe for long-term success. Patrick Vieira noted that fans expect more from a team at the top of the table.
Bayern's Bundesliga Push: Meanwhile, in Germany, Bayern Munich's commanding victory over Borussia Dortmund has all but sealed the Bundesliga title. This demonstrates the importance of consistent performance and dominance in securing a league title.