Liverpool’s struggles from set-pieces this season have become an increasingly discussed issue, especially when compared to the efficiency of their Premier League rivals. Under new head coach Arne Slot, the Reds have shown tactical evolution in open play, but one area where they appear to be falling behind is in set-piece productivity — particularly when measured against the ruthlessly effective Arsenal.
For years, Liverpool were one of the most dangerous sides in Europe from dead-ball situations. During the peak of Jürgen Klopp’s tenure, the team consistently ranked among the league’s top scorers from corners and wide free-kicks. Virgil van Dijk’s aerial dominance, clever blocking routines, and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s delivery created a reliable stream of goals. Set-pieces were not just an added weapon; they were a cornerstone of Liverpool’s identity.
However, the transition to Slot’s system has subtly shifted the team’s emphasis. The Dutch coach prioritizes positional structure, patient build-up, and technical control. While this has improved ball retention and defensive compactness in many matches, Liverpool’s set-piece routines have looked less inventive and, crucially, less productive. Statistical comparisons reveal a dip in both expected goals (xG) from corners and actual conversion rates.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have elevated set-pieces into a genuine competitive advantage. Under manager Mikel Arteta, and with the specialist input of set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, Arsenal have turned corners and free-kicks into meticulously choreographed scoring opportunities. The Gunners consistently rank near the top of the league for goals scored from dead-ball situations. Their routines feature layered blocking, late runs, and targeted delivery zones designed to maximize chaos in the six-yard box.
The numbers highlight the gap. Arsenal generate a significantly higher xG per corner compared to Liverpool, and they convert a greater percentage of those chances. Defensively, Arsenal also concede fewer shots from opposition set-pieces, showing balance on both ends of the pitch. Liverpool, by contrast, have looked vulnerable when defending second balls, an issue that compounds their attacking inefficiency.
One reason for Liverpool’s decline in this area could be personnel changes. While van Dijk remains a threat, the supporting aerial presence is less consistent. Injuries and squad rotation have affected cohesion in rehearsed routines. Moreover, Alexander-Arnold’s evolving midfield role means he is not always stationed wide for traditional delivery angles. Slot’s tactical flexibility may inadvertently dilute the specialization required for elite set-piece performance.
There is also a psychological dimension. Arsenal approach corners with visible belief; players attack the ball aggressively, knowing the structure behind them is well-drilled. Liverpool’s set-pieces, at times, appear more improvised. Without a clear, repeatable pattern, confidence can wane — and in tight matches, those marginal gains often determine outcomes.
That said, the gap is not insurmountable. Slot is known for tactical intelligence and adaptability. If Liverpool integrate more specialized coaching focus and refine their routines, there is no reason they cannot close the distance. Modern football increasingly treats set-pieces as high-value situations rather than afterthoughts. Arsenal have embraced this reality. For Liverpool to keep pace in the title race, matching that efficiency may prove essential.
Ultimately, while Slot’s broader philosophy may promise long-term evolution, the immediate statistical evidence suggests that in the fine margins of set-piece execution, Liverpool are currently a step behind Arsenal.
