Laura Hunter analyses the latest Premier League action, spotlighting the surge in set-piece goals, Manchester City’s loss of identity under Guardiola, and Manchester United’s cautious resurgence under Ruben Amorim.
Premier League clubs are experiencing a tactical shift, with a record 19 per cent of goals this season coming from set-pieces — the highest proportion in the league’s history. According to Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter, Arsenal and Brentford are leading this “set-piece revolution,” with the former scoring 11 such goals this term. “If you’re not doing it, you look like a bit of a dinosaur as a coach,” pundit Jamie Redknapp remarked on Super Sunday.
While Arsenal’s precision has redefined efficiency, Manchester City are grappling with an identity crisis. Pep Guardiola’s side, once synonymous with controlled possession and intricate build-up, have yet to score from a set-piece this season. Following a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa, City’s third defeat of the campaign, Gary Neville criticised their incoherence, saying: “Man City aren’t even good to watch any more… I’m not quite sure what it is.”
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s recent resurgence under Ruben Amorim continues to gather pace. After three consecutive league wins, Amorim’s approach — marked by discipline and direct play — is winning over his players. “The players really like Amorim,” Neville noted. Amorim himself admitted after their 4-2 win over Brighton, “We feel like we can solve anything.”
United’s momentum will be tested in upcoming fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Tottenham, as Premier League tactics continue to evolve.