Liverpool manager Arne Slot says it’s “impossible” for any team to win the Premier League this season without being skilled at set pieces.
The Reds have allowed 14 goals from set pieces (excluding penalties), which is the second-worst record in the league. They are also joint-ninth for goals scored from set plays, with 8.
In contrast, Arsenal leads in both categories, having conceded only five goals and scored 15 from set pieces, significantly contributing to their title pursuit.
Slot is certain that proficiency in set pieces is crucial for teams this season.
“In the current Premier League, doing well at set pieces is an essential attribute,” the Dutch manager said ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup fourth round match against Brighton on Saturday.
Slot: ‘Impossible’ to win Premier League without set pieces
When asked if his view on set pieces had changed, Slot replied: “Initially, I would say ‘no’ because you cannot win a big game with a poor set-piece balance. In today’s Premier League, every match is significant due to the league’s competitiveness.
“However, now I realize that I should say ‘yes’ because the importance of set pieces has reached a new level.
“People frequently ask me about the differences in our performances in the Premier League and the Champions League, and the simplest answer is set pieces. We excel at set pieces in the Champions League but struggle in the Premier League.
“This difference is evident in the league standings. The current Premier League emphasizes set pieces significantly more than in previous seasons.
“While last season was noteworthy, the importance has greatly increased now.
“Winning the league with our current set-piece balance is nearly impossible; you need to be at least plus five or six to even have a chance, even if you are playing well.”
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