Premier League corner kicks have devolved into chaotic wrestling matches, with defenders and attackers grappling in the six-yard box. Former assistant referee Darren Cann told BBC Sport that the situation has become a "nightmare" for officials to police, with as many as 16 players packed into the penalty area during set pieces.

Everton manager David Moyes criticized referees for failing to address the issue, calling their inaction "poor" after his team's match against Manchester United. The problem has intensified as teams increasingly use distraction tactics, with Arsenal's manager citing them as "trailblazers" for these "dark arts." Premier League matches now feature the highest percentage of set-piece goals among Europe's top five leagues at 27%.

Cann suggested potential solutions including moving attackers outside the six-yard box before corners or allowing referees to penalize grappling immediately after the whistle. The International Football Association Board recently met but did not specifically discuss the issue, though Scottish FA chief Ian Maxwell downplayed concerns about the behavior worsening. With frustration mounting among managers and fans alike, the Premier League faces growing pressure to address what many see as compromising the game's integrity.