The majority of Premier League games are no longer a “joy to watch,” according to Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who acknowledged that his “football heart doesn’t like” the increasing fixation on set-pieces.
This season, non-penalty set-piece goals have accounted for 27.5% of all league goals, the second-highest percentage since 2009–2010. In a campaign that is influenced as much by practiced routines as by open play, corners and free kicks are turning out to be crucial.
Slot made these remarks following Liverpool’s 5-2 victory over West Ham United on Saturday, in which the team scored three goals from corners in the first half. With the exception of penalties, the Reds have scored more set-piece goals than any other team in 2026 since the start of the season.
Arsenal, Liverpool’s rivals, has also benefited from set pieces this season, according to Naija News. Their 16 goals from corners equal the most ever scored in a Premier League season and are three more than any other team.
Slot answered, “You have to accept it.” “I believe the Premier League is where it’s most prevalent. Set pieces don’t seem to be as important to me when I watch other leagues.
“I say, ‘Wow, that’s a significant change,’ when I watch an Eredivisie game, which I still do, and I see goals being disallowed and goalkeepers getting fouled. Here, the referee replies, “Just go on,” even though you could nearly strike the goalie in the face.
The Dutchman, a former Eredivisie coach, thinks the physicality of dead-ball situations is altering the spectacle.
Do I like it?” he asked. It doesn’t sit well with my football heart. When you ask me about football, the Barcelona team from ten to fifteen years ago comes to mind. You hoped they would play every Sunday night.
Even though I don’t enjoy watching the majority of Premier League games, it’s always fascinating because of how fiercely competitive they are.
The intense competition in this league is what makes it so fantastic. Everyone can defeat everyone.
Liverpool’s output from corners and free kicks has increased after they parted ways with set-piece coach Aaron Briggs on December 30. Slot acknowledges that the trend is unlikely to be reversed.
“We will not alter it,” he continued, referring to Tuesday’s matchup with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“I simply wouldn’t be shocked if you went to watch a Sunday League game today and the 16-year-olds were totally preoccupied with set pieces.”
