Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that set-pieces have once again become a major weapon for Premier League teams, comparing the current trend to the days when facing Tony Pulis’ Stoke City was a physical and aerial battle.
Recent statistics show that nearly 19% of all Premier League goals this season have come from corners, almost five percent higher than in any previous season.
“It’s true, teams now treat every throw-in like a corner, loading the box with ten players,” Guardiola said. “We struggled with that when we played Brentford. Even when Brentford faced Liverpool, which we watched from our hotel every time (Michael) Kayode threw the ball, it caused danger. He was even named man of the match.”
The Spanish tactician noted that set-piece efficiency is not new in English football but has become more widespread.
“Set-pieces are a real threat again,” he said. “I remember when Sean Dyche’s Burnley were incredibly dangerous with long balls and second balls. Dyche mastered that style, just like Sam Allardyce did. And of course, back in the day, Stoke City were famous for it.”
Guardiola recalled how even before his time in England, Premier League managers like Arsène Wenger used to highlight the challenge of visiting Stoke.
“Now,” he added, “it’s not just Stoke, it’s many teams doing it. What used to be an exception has become a common strategy.”