Mikel Arteta has hit back at criticism of Arsenal's reliance on corners, insisting he is 'upset' that his team does not score more from set-pieces. The Premier League leaders have netted 16 goals from corners this season, including both in Sunday's win over Chelsea. Despite claims from pundits that Arsenal's tactics could make them the 'ugliest' title winners, Arteta remains unapologetic about his approach.

Arsenal's set-piece success has sparked debate about whether such tactics are ruining modern football. Liverpool manager Arne Slot recently admitted he no longer enjoys watching some Premier League matches due to this trend. However, Arteta argues that teams have adapted to increasingly sophisticated defensive systems, making set-pieces more valuable. He points to Chelsea and Manchester United as other teams scoring regularly from dead-ball situations.

Arteta believes the evolution of football tactics has made it harder to create chances from open play, forcing teams to maximize every opportunity. 'If you want to watch that football, you have to go to a different country,' he said, suggesting the Premier League has changed dramatically in recent seasons. With Arsenal maintaining their title challenge and set to face Brighton on Wednesday, the debate over their tactics is likely to continue as the season reaches its climax.