The Evolution of Set Pieces in Football

Set pieces have transformed from being seen as an underdog's strategy to a crucial component for top teams. Historically, they were viewed as a supplementary opportunity, but now clubs like Arsenal have made them a fundamental aspect of their attack. Recent data indicates that between a quarter and a third of Premier League goals come from set pieces, highlighting their significance. This shift in perspective aligns with the strategic advancements in coaching, where a greater emphasis is placed on set-piece specialists who can refine both attacking and defensive set-piece routines.