Former Barcelona and Everton manager Ronald Koeman has sparked major debate after claiming that Arsenal secured the 2025/26 Premier League title largely thanks to their exceptional set-piece prowess, particularly from corner kicks.

“Arsenal have won the Premier League due to corner kicks. If it wasn’t for corner kicks, they wouldn’t have won the league.” – Ronald Koeman

The quote has gone viral, dividing opinions between those who see it as a backhanded compliment to Mikel Arteta’s side and others who view it as sour grapes from a rival coach.

Arsenal’s Record-Breaking Corner Kick Dominance

Koeman’s statement isn’t entirely without merit. Arsenal delivered a historic performance from dead-ball situations in the 2025/26 season:

  • 18 goals from corner kicks — a new Premier League single-season record.
  • Most corner goals in Europe’s top five leagues.
  • Set-piece specialist Nicolas Jover has turned Arsenal into a set-piece machine.

These goals proved decisive in several tight matches, helping the Gunners edge out their title rivals in a highly competitive season.

Why Set Pieces Matter More Than Ever in the Premier League

Modern football has evolved, and set pieces now account for a massive percentage of goals across the top leagues. Arsenal under Arteta embraced this reality more effectively than any other team.

Key Arsenal Set-Piece Stars in 2025/26:

  • Gabriel Magalhães — Aerial monster and consistent scorer from corners.
  • Declan Rice & William Saliba — Physical presence in the box.
  • Bukayo Saka & Martin Ødegaard — Deadly delivery from corners and free-kicks.

While Arsenal also dominated in open play with quality attacking football, their ability to punish opponents from corners gave them a significant edge — an “extra attacker” in many games.

Is Koeman Right? A Balanced View

Arguments supporting Koeman’s view:

  • Arsenal scored nearly 15-20% of their goals from corners.
  • They broke multiple set-piece records this season.
  • In several key matches, late or crucial goals came directly from corners.

Counter arguments:

  • Arsenal finished with the best overall squad depth, consistency, and tactical organization.
  • They led the league in multiple statistical categories beyond set pieces.
  • Title winners have always benefited from strong set-piece play (see Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea in previous years).

Calling it the only reason they won feels like an exaggeration, but there’s no denying set pieces were a game-changer.

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TOPICS: Ronald Koeman