Antonio Conte Praises Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strength Ahead of Champions League Clash
Antonio Conte has heaped praise on Arsenal‘s exceptional set-piece prowess, hailing Mikel Arteta’s side as a leading example for teams across Europe in the modern game.
The Napoli head coach made the comments ahead of his side’s crucial Champions League clash with Chelsea, highlighting how Arsenal are dominating dead-ball situations and forcing rivals to adapt.
Arsenal’s Unbeaten Run and Set-Piece Mastery in the Champions League
Arsenal have enjoyed a flawless start to the Champions League this season, winning all seven of their matches in the league phase.
Mikel Arteta’s team stands on the brink of topping the standings, needing just a draw in their final home game against Kairat Almaty to secure top spot.
A key factor in Arsenal’s success has been their lethal set-piece execution. This term, 29% of the Gunners’ goals across the Premier League and Champions League have come from set-pieces, with opponents consistently struggling to contain Arsenal from corners and free-kicks. This dominance has turned dead-ball moments into reliable scoring opportunities, showcasing innovative coaching and precise delivery.
Also Read: Arteta Reveals ‘Beautiful’ Team Meeting After Arsenal 3-2 Home Defeat to Manchester United
Conte Lauds Arsenal as the Benchmark for Set-Piece Evolution
Speaking to the media, Antonio Conte singled out Arsenal’s approach as one that others must study and emulate. He described the north London club as “dominating and setting an example in set-pieces,” noting that teams everywhere are now analyzing this aspect of their play.
Conte emphasized the rapid evolution of football, where set-pieces have become increasingly vital amid high pressing and limited space in open play. He explained:
“‘Today, you see Arsenal dominating and setting an example in set-pieces, we’re all looking at this aspect. Having a player who can take long throws is important, because it’s like a corner. You have to be good at explaining these changes to clubs in the transfer market, because they may not understand certain things.”
“Football is evolving at an absurd pace, and you risk falling behind. Today, you need a goalkeeper who’s good with his feet… Goals scored from stolen balls while pressing high have increased.”
The Italian tactician pointed out that against compact defenses, creative solutions — including set-pieces — are essential. He added that having specialists, such as players capable of long throws (effectively like corners), is now crucial in squad building and transfer decisions.
Conte urged clubs to stay updated: “You have to be willing to keep up to date and capture the positives if you want to stay at the top. If you want to remain mediocre, stay in your current situation… If you want to be among the best, you have to adapt, capturing the best aspects.”
In the Premier League especially, he noted that “every free kick is a scoring opportunity,” underscoring Arsenal’s influence in making set-pieces a decisive weapon.
Conte Reflects on Chelsea’s Progress and His Time at the Club
Ahead of Napoli’s showdown with Chelsea — his former club — Conte also spoke warmly about the Blues’ direction. He praised their investment in young talent and believes they are “building something for the future.”
Recalling his successful stint at Stamford Bridge, where he won the Premier League in his debut season after taking over a 10th-placed team, Conte thanked former owner Roman Abramovich and executive Marina Granovskaia for the opportunity. He highlighted Chelsea’s “winning mentality” and ongoing efforts with high-profile signings like Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández.
Conte Dismisses Diego Costa Criticism
Conte also addressed recent comments from former Chelsea striker Diego Costa, who called him “always angry” and “very bitter.” The Napoli boss brushed off the remarks, saying he avoids wasting energy on media opinions.
“I know very well that around football there are intelligent and stupid people,” Conte stated. He reflected briefly on their time together — winning the league — but noted Costa’s desire to leave multiple times that season, adding, “After Chelsea, I don’t know what happened to him.”
As the Champions League league phase reaches its climax, Conte’s insights highlight Arsenal’s growing status as innovators under Arteta, with set-piece dominance emerging as a defining trend in elite football.
Also Read: Christian Norgaard Responds to Arsenal Exit Rumours Amid Ajax Interest
Antonio Conte Praises Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strength Ahead of Champions League Clash