Declan Rice has had enough of the Arsenal criticism. The Gunners midfielder is calling out what he sees as unfair treatment of his team's set-piece success.
Arsenal have scored 19 goals from corners and free kicks this season. That's at least five more than any other Premier League team. It's more than double what 10 teams in the league have managed.
"Everyone talks about it and then everyone does it -- so it's confusing!" Rice told The i Paper. "But they're not doing it to the level that we do it."
Rice has a point. Teams criticize Arsenal for relying on set pieces, then immediately try to copy them. The difference? Arsenal are just better at it. Rice even thinks his team can improve further, which is a scary thought for defenders.
Slot and Tel Aren't Fans
Liverpool manager Arne Slot recently stirred the pot. After Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-1 in a match with three set-piece goals, Slot said modern football isn't "a pleasure" to watch anymore. He questioned why referees don't punish the physical battles in the box.
Tottenham's Mathys Tel jumped on the bandwagon too. He called penalty boxes during corners a "zoo." Tel complained about pushing, holding, and general chaos that makes it impossible for goalkeepers to do their job.
Tel went further, saying the Premier League has become less exciting overall. He wants more individual skill and fewer structured plays. "It's no longer a show, it's really annoying to watch," he said.
Rooney Backs Arsenal's Approach
But not everyone agrees with the critics. Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney jumped to Arsenal's defense on his podcast. He thinks the criticism is completely unfair.
"The set pieces are part of football -- why would you not use it?" Rooney argued. He even said if he were Mikel Arteta, he'd use set pieces even more.
Rooney pointed out that his last title-winning United team wasn't brilliant overall. But nobody talks about that now. Results matter more than style, especially when considering match outcomes and betting angles.
For bettors, Arsenal's set-piece strength is worth noting. Backing Arsenal to score from corners or free kicks could offer value, especially at home where they can maximize these situations. Their 19 set-piece goals this season isn't luck – it's a proven weapon.
Rice and his teammates aren't backing down. If other teams can't handle Arsenal's physicality and organization at set pieces, that's their problem. The Gunners will keep doing what works.
