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Arsenal's Success Masks Boring Style: Why Their Wins Could Harm Football

ESPN Soccer •
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Arsenal's march toward a historic quadruple has been overshadowed by criticism of their playing style. Despite teenager Max Dowman's wonder goal against Everton, pundits argue the Gunners' approach is making football worse. Former players like Paul Scholes have called them the 'worst team to win the league,' while others criticize their time-wasting tactics and set-piece reliance.

Arteta's team has become Europe's most prolific set-piece scorers, netting 21 goals from dead-ball situations this season. This accounts for 34.4% of their Premier League goals, surpassing previous champions Blackburn and Manchester United. The strategy has drawn comparisons to 'Artetaball' spreading through the Premier League, with rival coaches focusing more on set-pieces after seeing Arsenal's success.

If Arsenal complete their quadruple, their methodical approach could influence football worldwide, much like Guardiola's possession-based philosophy. The contradiction is stark: a team on the verge of unprecedented success is simultaneously criticized for making the game less entertaining. Dowman's moment of brilliance stands as a rare exception in a season where Arsenal's calculated, risk-averse style has dominated.