Arsenal's Set-Piece Mastery Sparks Debate Ahead of Leverkusen Clash

Kasper Hjulmand

Arsenal's success from set-pieces draws criticism, with Leverkusen's Kasper Hjulmand questioning tactics and ex-Chelsea striker Chris Sutton labelling them potentially “ugliest” PL winners.

Leverkusen boss Kasper Hjulmand questions Arsenal's set-piece tactics, asking if blocking opponents is allowed...

The influence of set pieces is growing, and Hjulmand wants clarity on the rules ahead of Wednesday's clash.

“It's a big challenge, but I have to say, I'm a bit confused by these offensive blocks. I don't know if it's allowed under the rules when the ball is very far away,” Hjulmand told reporters.

Arsenal's set-piece prowess has fueled their top spot in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta's side excel in this area.

They've equalled the Premier League record for goals from corners this season, reaching 16. In the Champions League, Arsenal's form was flawless - winning eight from eight to top their group. 

“We also do it, so it's not just something others do. But it's getting more and more common in football,” Hjulmand said of the practice.

“There are very many blocks and they (Arsenal) create a lot of chances as a result of it.

“They do it very well and spend a lot of time on these situations. They're one of the best teams in these situations and they work with it a lot.”

Hjulmand's concern is that Arsenal's blocks are happening further away from the ball than allowed. He thinks blocks should only be permitted close to the ball. 

“As I understand football, when you do body checks, the ball has to be inside a playing situation.

“So I'm just wondering - is it inside the rules to actually block without the ball being close to you. Creating space, pushing players, pushing the goalkeeper?”

Kasper Hjulmand, Leverkusen's coach, has joined the critics of Arsenal's tactics, questioning the legality of their set-piece strategies ahead of their Champions League clash. Earlier, Brighton coach Fabian Hurzeler criticized Arsenal for time-wasting, saying “only one team wanted to play football” after their 1-0 loss to Arsenal.

"It’s a big challenge but we are ready." pic.twitter.com/j2CsT3EtvU

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) March 10, 2026

Hjulmand specifically questioned whether blocking opponents away from the ball should be allowed, citing the growing influence of set pieces in the game. Arsenal's success from set pieces is undeniable, with 16 league goals from corners this season, equalling the Premier League single-season record.

Arsenal's style has sparked debate, with ex-Chelsea striker Chris Sutton questioning if they'll be the “ugliest” PL winners. But Arsenal fans are loving it, chanting “set-piece again, ole, ole.”

Arteta's team has embraced the criticism, with the coach joking he's upset they don't score more from dead-ball situations.