Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his ambition for the Gunners to dominate all facets of the game, declaring he wants his team to be “kings of everything” following widespread praise for their set-piece prowess.
Arsenal showcased their aerial strength by scoring twice from corners in Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United, bringing their season total to 22 goals from corners—five more than any other team across Europe’s top five leagues.
Former Manchester United and Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov likened Arsenal to “the new Stoke City,” referencing the former Premier League side renowned for their set-piece dominance during their decade-long stint in the top flight from 2008 to 2018.
Responding to the comparison, Arteta called it a “big compliment” during his Friday press conference but emphasized his desire for Arsenal to excel in all aspects of the game, not just set-pieces.
“We want to be the kings of everything,” he said.
“On set pieces, the best in the world; on high press, the best in the world; attacking in open spaces, the best in the world. Best atmosphere and stadium – the best at everything.
“Before it was we didn’t score enough, we didn’t challenge, we didn’t win big games for 20 years. We want to be the best at everything.”
Arsenal are on a run of four consecutive victories and are seven points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool.
They travel to Fulham on Sunday and have defenders Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori back fit after missing Wednesday’s victory.