London – Arsenal currently sit atop the Premier League table, enjoying a seven-point advantage over Manchester City, and are also progressing in multiple cup competitions. However, their path to potential glory is increasingly shadowed by criticism regarding their style of play and a perceived over-reliance on set-piece routines. The debate intensified following a controversial 1-1 draw against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, sparking accusations – most notably from former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel – that the Gunners are attempting to win the Premier League “with tricks.”
The source of the discontent centers on Arsenal’s effectiveness from set pieces, where they’ve scored 21 Premier League goals and 35 across all competitions this season. While undeniably potent, critics argue this success comes at the expense of fluid, open play and creative attacking football. The team’s tendency to slow down the game after winning a corner, averaging 44 seconds per corner kick according to data from Opta, has also drawn attention.
The Champions League match against Leverkusen proved a flashpoint. A late goal from Kai Havertz, converting a penalty in the 89th minute, secured a draw for Arsenal, but the awarding of the penalty itself was highly contentious, described as a “phantom penalty” by some observers. The incident fueled the narrative that Arsenal are benefiting from questionable officiating and exploiting the boundaries of fair play.
John Obi Mikel didn’t hold back in his assessment on CBS Sports, stating, “You’ve spent almost a billion [pounds], Mikel Arteta, almost a billion. And you’re telling me the only way to win games is with set pieces? It’s ridiculous… they win ugly.” He further elaborated, claiming the team’s reliance on set pieces stifles the creativity of key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Emile Smith Rowe (formerly known as Eze, as referenced in the original source).
Mikel went on to allege that Arsenal’s tactics during set pieces are “illegal,” accusing players of obstructing the goalkeeper and illegally hindering opponents from jumping. He questioned why VAR officials aren’t intervening to address these perceived infractions, suggesting that if left unchecked, other teams will adopt similar strategies. “For me, that’s illegal. That’s what I mean: Arsenal are trying to win the Premier League with tricks,” he concluded.
It’s important to note that Arsenal’s success this season isn’t solely built on set pieces. They have demonstrated tactical flexibility under Mikel Arteta, and their strong defensive record has been a key factor in their league position. However, the concerns raised by Mikel, and echoed by other pundits, highlight a growing unease about the aesthetic quality of their football and the methods employed to achieve results.
The debate also comes at a time when teams are actively analyzing Arsenal’s set-piece routines, attempting to devise strategies to neutralize their effectiveness. A recent report highlighted “the ‘Anti-Arsenal’ plan” – a defensive approach specifically designed to counter Arsenal’s aerial threat. This suggests that opponents are recognizing the Gunners’ strength in this area and are adapting accordingly.
Mikel Arteta, speaking after the draw with Manchester City on September 21, 2025, defended his team selection and emphasized their dominance in possession – registering 67.2% against City, a record against a Pep Guardiola-managed team. He stated, “I’m extremely proud of the players and the team… The pride that I sense is to dominate the game the way we did against this team.” However, he acknowledged the need to be more clinical in front of goal, despite controlling the match.
The situation presents a complex challenge for Arteta. Balancing tactical pragmatism with the desire for attractive, attacking football is a delicate act. While winning is the ultimate goal, maintaining the support of the Arsenal faithful – and avoiding accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct – requires a more nuanced approach.
Arsenal’s upcoming schedule will provide further insight into their capabilities. They face Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-finals and, crucially, a rematch against Manchester City in the League Cup final. These matches will test their ability to perform under pressure and demonstrate whether their success is sustainable, and whether they can overcome the tactical challenges posed by their rivals.
The Gunners’ next Premier League fixture is against [insert next opponent and date here – *verification needed*]. Fans will be watching closely to spot if Arteta’s side can continue their winning run and silence the critics, or if their reliance on set pieces will ultimately prove to be their undoing. The title race is far from over, and the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining Arsenal’s destiny.
What do you suppose? Are Arsenal’s tactics effective, or are they compromising the spirit of the game? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
