How the Premier League killed Arsenal’s set-piece threat – and the fightback against winning ugly being led by referees, rulemakers… and towels

Arsenal's set-piece effectiveness has sharply dropped following an officiating clampdown on holding and grappling, according to James Sharpe. After scoring a record 19 corner goals to secure the title last season, the Gunners have yet to score from a corner five games into the new campaign. League-wide, corner goals have decreased to 9.9 percent of all goals scored.

The decline coincides with stricter refereeing led by Howard Webb, as well as a new rule prohibiting towel use before throw-ins. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the tactical adjustments required, while Sharpe notes that injuries to key aerial targets, including William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, have further hindered Arsenal's routines.